Let's face it: the current job market for recent
college graduates is a bit discouraging. With a troubled
economy and increased competition, it's becoming more and
more challenging for college grads to find jobs in today's
work place. Relocating to another city may seem like a
daunting feat in today's world, especially when compared to
living at home with minimal expenses. Fortunately for recent
grads, Forbes has put together its list of The Best Cities for Recent College
Grads, providing a glimmer of hope that success is
on the horizon.
Forbes compiled the list by looking at the country's
40 largest metro areas and their starting salaries, cost of
living, the percentage of adults with college degrees, and
the percentage of the population in their 20s. Since many
college students are graduating with a great deal of debt,
the magazine cites a city's economic situation as a major
factor when deciding where to move.
With the nation's highest starting salary for recent
graduates, San Francisco, CA is #10 on
the Forbes list. A high starting salary coupled with a
plethora of job opportunities help to offset the city's high
cost of living.
It's no surprise that since the government accounts for
one-third of all work in our nation's capital, Washington D.C. boasts a
very professional population. Coming in at #9, Forbes
notes the city as having the highest percentage of
college-educated persons.
#8 on the Forbes list is Raleigh-Durham, NC. With
what seems to be a recession-proof economy, education and
government are 2 of the city's strongest industries. Also in
North Carolina and #7 on the list, is the city of
Charlotte. Forbes lists finance as one of the
key industries with both Bank of America and Wachovia
headquartered there.
Southern charm and a melting pot of cultures, Atlanta, GA is the #6 city
to live in. However, don't let the southern charm fool you;
24 major corporations are headquartered in this city. Across
the country is Forbes' #5 choice Seattle, WA. Though Seattle
is a hub for the technology industry and the home of
Starbucks, anyone living there must like the rain. Prime
geographical location puts Denver, CO at #4. The city
acts as the financial center of the West and also functions
as a transportation center through the Rocky Mountains.
The top 3 spots on the Forbes list are all in
Texas. As the headquarters for Dell, Austin takes
3rd place with the state
government and the University of Texas as other major
employers. If you're into finding and drilling for oil than
the #2 city on the list, Dallas-Fort Worth, is the
place for you. With high-energy costs creating a demand for
science and technical degrees Houston is the best city
for recent college graduates.
If you're not sure if relocation is right for you, check out
our Swapping Places channel,
offering an insider's look at several of the top exciting
cities across the U.S. Also check out our Relocating for Work video
and blog which provide advice for those considering moving
across the country - or across the world.
