Portfolio.com/bizjournals analyzed the 67 U.S. metros with populations above 750,000, searching for qualities that would appeal to workers in their 20s and early 30s. The study used a 10-part formula that gave the highest marks to places with strong growth rates, moderate cost of living, and substantial pools of young adults who are college-educated and employed.
(Click here to explore an interactive that breaks down the largest U.S. metropolitan areas and how they rank as best places for young adults.)
Austin, Texas, is ranked No. 1, Washington is ranked No. 2 and Raleigh, N.C., is ranked No. 3.
Elsewhere in Florida, Jacksonville ranks No. 47, Orlando No. 52 and Miami-Fort Lauderdale No. 53.
The least desirable market for young adults, according to the Portfolio.com/bizjournals study, is Detroit, which is saddled with the nation’s worst unemployment rate for young adults, the slowest rate of income growth, and the biggest decline in overall employment.
