Millennial Movers: Top 5 Cities for Millennials

When you think of Millennials, the cities that come to mind are usually New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco. But according to Time’s recent article on the top five cities for Millennials to move to, these aren’t among the top choices. Cost of living and job growth may be just some of the reasons why the five cities that did make the cut were honored as Millennial go-to’s. And with the following stats, we can’t say we blame them. If you’re a Millennial on the search for the next city to call home, check out this list to see if any of these cities are calling your name.

5. Seattle, WA – 24.1% Millennial population 

Pinehurst and Capitol Hill are just some of the great neighborhoods in Seattle for a Millennial that’s looking for fast job growth with a social scene to match. Seattle has a vibrant nightlife and an NYC feel due to all the great coffee shops and excellent walkability. Seattle may not be one of the most affordable cities in the country, but it’s a good alternative for those who can’t afford Los Angeles or San Francisco. And with notable corporate headquarters such as Amazon and Microsoft located here, young people have lots of opportunities to score their dream career. 

4. Tucson, AZ – 24.4% Millennial population

While Tucson isn’t typically known to be a large, urban metropolis, it’s an upcoming haven for young Millennials to move to. Tucson’s big draw is that it boasts most of the same amenities as larger cities do without the same cost of living. Tucson’s revamped downtown area and fast growing foodie culture are just some of the reasons why Millennials are ditching the better known big cities for this smaller metropolis. The University of Arizona as well as many companies in the high-tech and aerospace industries are also attractive propositions for young Millennials looking to expand their careers. 

3. Columbus, OH – 25.9% Millennial population

If you’re looking for the perfect balance between peaceful suburbia and big-city living, Columbus is your match. From great sports teams to foodie culture to low unemployment rates (corporations such as Nationwide and Victoria’s Secret are housed here) – Columbus has a little bit of it all. Take a stroll to Short North for some great shopping and then discover some signature local foods and drinks, including ice cream, craft beer and coffee. It's not hard to see why Columbus is fast becoming a hot spot for the young and ambitious to make their way to. 

2. Atlanta, GA – 26.2% Millennial population 

Appropriately dubbed as “Hot-lanta”, Atlanta is known for offering big city amenities such as cultural festivals, nightlife and some of the best food the South has to offer. With a 14.9% job increase expected through 2019, it’s safe to say that Atlanta is a smart choice for Millennials that are looking for a good balance between career advancement, cost of living and a great social life. 

1. Austin, TX – 26.2% Millennial Population 

If you haven’t heard yet, Austin, TX, is leading the race for the most popular place for Millennials to move to - and it’s not just because of SXSW. Austin truly embodies all the aspects that make up a great overall living situation for a Millennial – relatively low cost of living, job growth, safety, entertainment and some of the best live music in the nation. Large companies have caught wind of the growing Austin trend and tech giants such as AT&T, Dell and IBM have all made themselves a home in this little, big city. 

If you haven’t considered any of these great cities to move to, it’s time to do some research and weigh your options. You’re only young once and moving to an exciting new city is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.