The entire world might not revolve around young people, but the vitality of many of America’s cities does. College-educated 20-somethings often bring an infusion of art, music and culture to the locations they inhabit. So what gives certain places the ability to sustain their popularity among the younger generation? A blend of affordability, entertainment options and job availability attract young people to metro areas.
What Makes Cities Youth-Friendly?
When building its list of top cities in which young people should settle, Kiplinger considered a few different factors.
The region’s job market was of paramount importance. Most young people who are looking for a new town are fresh out of college and seeking employment. A city can be exciting and filled with things to do, but if the area doesn’t have enough jobs to support its young residents, they won’t have enough money to go out and enjoy the city. On top of a good job market, having stellar higher education options is a definite plus. Many people in their 20s plan on returning to school for a graduate degree.
If a city is inconvenient in terms of rent price or commute, that locale might not be right for young people. That’s not to say regions with inflated housing costs are a complete no-go for 20-somethings (New York City made the list), but the more affordable the better for young people. Commuting by car isn’t terribly popular among many members of the current generation, who are often motivated frugally and environmentally to utilize public transportation, bicycles or their own feet to get to work. Cities with centralized and busy downtown hubs and thorough public transportation options are some of the best for young people.
Most importantly, young people want to partake in exciting activities and meet up other people their age. If a city goes to sleep at sundown and is full of retirees, young people aren’t likely to move in. On the flip side, a metropolis full of art, music, outdoor activities and nightlife is likely to attract a youthful crowd.
Here’s a list of the top ten cities for young Americans, as compiled by Kiplinger.
- Washington, D.C.
- Salt Lake City, Utah
- Portland, Ore.
- New York, N.Y.
- Lansing, Mich.
- Kansas City, Mo.
- Houston, Texas
- Chicago, Ill.
- Charlotte, N.C.
- Austin, Texas
