Moving for Career – Best Cities for Jobs in the US
Ready to mix things up and find the perfect spot for your career to take off? Our selection of the best cities for jobs in the US isn’t just about work – they’re about living your best life, too. These spots have it all – great opportunities, fun lifestyles, and plenty of perks. Get ready to pack the bags and that CV as we tour the best cities to get a job where you can work hard, play harder, and truly thrive!
What Makes a City Great for Furthering Your Career?
When it’s time to move, and you’re looking to get a job in a new city, doing your research is super important. You’ll need to dive head-first into the market and do some networking to really get the ball rolling.
Public schools, healthcare, and fast food restaurants are the leading industries in the US in terms of employment.
But don’t worry – if teaching algebra, nursing wounds, or flipping patties isn’t exactly your dream, there are a ton of other opportunities out there!
Take the tech industry, for example – it’s absolutely massive, with more gadgets, apps, and startup ideas than you can shake a smartphone at.
However, deciding where to live shouldn’t come down to only office hours. You won’t be working all the time – we hope not, at least. So, it’s not just about landing the gig – it’s about envisioning the new life and setting yourself off on the right foot.
The Perfect Job Market Cocktail – Industry Diversity and the Cost of Living
You want to relocate to a new city where you can explore different opportunities and still afford to enjoy your life. This balance between a diverse market and an affordable cost of living can make all the difference when you’re looking to settle down.
Consider factors like housing costs, transportation, groceries, and other everyday expenses to ensure you can enjoy life without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to settle down, here are the median home prices and annual salaries in the places we will discuss:
| City | Median Home Price | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Austin, Texas | $527,000 | $87,000 |
| Seattle, Washington | $873,000 | $76,000 |
| Salt Lake City, Utah | $475,000 | $69,000 |
| Raleigh, North Carolina | $447,000 | $56,000 |
| Orlando, Florida | $395,000 | $94,000 |
Work Hard, Play Harder – Don’t Forget About the Quality of Life
Of course, your career is important, but you also need to consider the vibes. Think about the lifestyle you lead and want to lead. Whether it’s a city with a bustling nightlife, great outdoor activities, or a quiet suburban feel, make sure you pick the place that perfectly fits your personal and professional goals.
#1 Austin, Texas – It’s a Tech Boomtown Right in the Heart of Texas
Welcome to Austin, Texas – a city that’s not just famous for its live music, BBQ, and bats under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Austin is so cool it even has its own motto – Keep Austin Weird. But don’t let that weirdness fool you – this place is a powerhouse when it comes to tech innovation and job opportunities.
For those wanting to work in the tech industry, relocating to Austin is a pretty smart move. It’s one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in America, exploding thanks to the arrival of major firms like Samsung, Meta, and Tesla. These big names, along with long-time local heavyweights like Dell and IBM, have attracted a younger, tech-savvy crowd.
This techie influx has earned Austin the nickname Silicon Hills. Over the past decade, the number of tech jobs in the Austin metropolitan area has skyrocketed by 62%. But it’s not just tech – this place is one of the cities with the most jobs, period. It boasts thriving healthcare, education, and creative industries, making it a versatile hotspot for various career paths.
There’s a Great Balance of Work and Play Here
Living in Austin is all about balancing work with fun. After a day of coding or crunching numbers, you can unwind at one of the many live music venues, take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, or grab some delicious tacos at a local food truck. It’s also a great choice for those cross-country moving with kids – the little ones will surely enjoy the exciting lifestyle as you’re chasing down a career path.
#2 Seattle, Washington – Coffee, Rain, and Plenty of Opportunities
Seattle, Washington – a city where the coffee flows as freely as the rain, and innovation is always in the air. In fact, did you know that the first-ever Starbucks was opened right here, way back in 1971? That’s right, this city takes its coffee seriously, and with all the rainy days, a hot cup of joe is practically a necessity.
Known for its iconic Space Needle, breathtaking views of Puget Sound, and the bustling Pike Place Market, where you can see fish literally fly through the air, Seattle is a place of endless charm. And when it comes to opportunities, the place isn’t just about tech giants like Microsoft, Amazon, and Zillow. The city also boasts thriving healthcare, biotech, and retail sectors, providing plenty of choices.
The manufacturing industry has a significant presence here, too, with Boeing and Weyerhaeuser employing many locals. The average salary in Seattle is higher than the national average, which is great news for both your wallet and relocation budget. But, let’s be real, the cost of living is higher too – so, you win some, you lose some.
Seattle’s Lifestyle Appeal – From Pike Place to Space Needle
Living in Seattle means embracing a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Spend your weekends exploring the eclectic shops at Pike Place Market or kayaking on Lake Union. Overall, the city’s vibrant arts scene, diverse food culture, and close proximity to outdoor adventures make it a fantastic place to call home.
#3 Salt Lake City, Utah – A Hidden Gem When It Comes to the Best Cities for Jobs in the US
Salt Lake City is more than just a gorgeous backdrop for your Instagram photos. Nestled between the Great Salt Lake and the snow-capped peaks of the Wasatch Range, this place offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor living.
There are plenty of reasons to move here, but in recent years, relocating for a job in Salt Lake City has become a common occurrence. According to a recent Wall Street Journal study, Utah is quickly becoming one of the best places for jobs in the US.
This strong market is fueled by white-collar industries like finance and tech, which are leading the charge. But that’s not all – Utah’s healthcare and energy sectors are also experiencing significant growth. Besides the booming market of opportunities, here are some additional perks of calling Salt Lake City your home:
- It’s home to excellent schools and universities,
- It hosts numerous famous festivals and has plenty of museums and theaters,
- From food trucks to fine dining, there’s a vibrant food scene here.
It’s an Outdoor Paradise That Will Keep You Active Outside Office Hours
Salt Lake City is an outdoor lover’s dream come true. Whether you’re into skiing, hiking, mountain biking, or just enjoying breathtaking mountain views, this place has it all. Imagine wrapping up a day at the office and hitting the slopes or exploring one of the many scenic trails. The great outdoors is always calling, making it easy to stay active and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.
#4 Raleigh, North Carolina – One of the Best Cities to Find a Job in Research and Development
Welcome to Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, a city that beautifully blends historic charm with modern innovation. Known as the “City of Oaks” for its many oak trees, Raleigh offers a picturesque setting with vibrant cultural scenes and countless green parks. And if you’re a fan of squirrels, you’re in luck – Raleigh is famous for its squirrel population, which adds a playful touch to the city’s parks.
Because it’s the state capital, thousands of people in the area work for the state government. On top of that, Raleigh offers a wealth of opportunities in research, healthcare, education, and information technology. Major employers include IBM Corporation, SAS Institute Inc., WakeMed, and Cisco Systems Inc.
The 7,000-acre Research Triangle Park (RTP) is a major employment hub, housing more than 300 companies and providing jobs for over 60,000 residents. Since the 1970s, RTP has been the birthplace of approximately 1,800 startups, fueling innovation and growth in the region. It’s also located near three prestigious universities, North Carolina State University, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina, which makes it a great place for those who would like to both work and study at a college.
Raleigh’s Unique Vibe – Southern Charm Meets Modern Living
Raleigh is where Southern hospitality meets cutting-edge innovation. This relatively big city offers a delightful mix of old and new, with tree-lined streets, friendly locals, and a lively arts scene. Whether you’re strolling through the North Carolina Museum of Art or catching a concert at Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh provides the perfect balance of work and play in a community that welcomes everyone with open arms.
#5 Orlando, Florida – Sun, Fun, and a Booming Job Market
Orlando isn’t just about theme parks and tourists – it’s a vibrant city bursting with opportunities and sunshine around every corner! It boasts gorgeous weather year-round, making it perfect for those who love the outdoors – just be prepared for the warmer climate. It’s also one of the best cities to raise a family in Florida, making it the perfect pick if your little ones are joining for the ride.
Orlando’s job market is as diverse as its attractions. Major employers include the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando Health, and the University of Central Florida (UCF). Additionally, Electronic Arts (EA) produces some of the world’s best-selling video games right here, making Orlando a hot spot for tech and gaming enthusiasts.
Everyday Life Here Is Like Living the Dream
Relocating to Florida will make you feel like you’re on a permanent vacation. Imagine finishing up your workday and heading straight to one of the many theme parks or, if you’re up for something a bit more relaxing, a round of golf. The city’s warm weather, vibrant nightlife, and endless entertainment options make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to balance a thriving career with a fun and dynamic lifestyle.
Ace Those Interviews While Long-Distance Movers Handle the Heavy Lifting
While you’re busy nailing those job interviews and landing your dream position, hiring cross-country movers can be a great way to give yourself the joy of a stress-free move. The baseline long-distance moving services will handle the heavy lifting, from loading to unloading, ensuring everything arrives safely at the new home.
For the ultimate convenience, companies such as Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving offer full packing services, meaning you literally don’t have to lift a finger. Moreover, if you’re also looking for a car shipping company, you can kill two birds with one stone because pros offer auto transport too! Your prized ride will arrive at the destination without a hitch.
Auto-Transport
If your first concern is having your vehicle transported safely and efficiently, enclose shipping is the way to go.
Read more
Packing Services
Our moving teams are trained to pack your belongings in the most efficient manner possible.
Read more
Moving Services
Whether you are moving from New York to Los Angeles or from San Francisco to Chicago, we can help you.
Read morePack up Those Bags and Dreams – It’s Time for a Whole New Chapter!
So there you have it – whether you’re drawn to the tech boom of Austin or the sunny excitement of Orlando, each of these cities offers unique opportunities to supercharge your career. Remember, it’s not just about finding the best position but also about embracing a lifestyle that makes you excited to wake up every morning. By looking at both sides, you’ll surely end up with the perfect spot to call home.
While you’re busy planning your career leap, let Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving take care of everything else. Whether you need help with just the heavy lifting or would like our long-distance moving company to handle all of it, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to focus on acing those interviews while we take care of everything else.
