As artificial intelligence sweeps through white-collar jobs, college graduates are turning their tassels in search of cities with ample job opportunities. But popular cities like New York and Los Angeles might not be their best bet—and they might have better luck starting their adult lives in less glitzy cities.
The top 10 largest U.S. cities for recent college graduates have declined based on starting salary and housing indicators, while some of the busiest metros are also missing from the list. According to a recent report from Glassdoor and Redfin, Washington, D.C. ranks No. 1 among emerging professionals; the average early-career annual income in Washington, D.C. is $79,857, the median price of a starter home is $320,000, and monthly rent accounts for about 34% of income.
Research shows that while housing costs are high in the nation’s capital, it offers a strong entry-level job market and culture around every corner.
The other cities on the list that may surprise some are Omaha at number two. While the average early-career annual income in this Midwestern city is slightly lower than other cities at $59,123, the average price of a starter home is just $195,000. In addition to more affordable home ownership, the report notes that Omaha is a hub for major companies like Berkshire Hathaway and offers a better work-life balance than other fast-paced cities.
“I am currently helping a young couple move from North Carolina to Omaha,” Justin Gomez, an agent at Redfin Premier in Omaha, said in the report. “People move here from all over the country because it’s a great community for young people… and with many homes selling for under $300,000, young graduates actually have the opportunity to buy a home.”
Boston ranks third with its highest early-career earnings of $80,026 and ample employment opportunities. Texas’ big cities are also major hubs for young workers, with Dallas, Houston and Austin earning a spot on this year’s list. As more Fortune 500 companies flock to the tax-advantaged southern state, they bring with them entry-level jobs, and the cities have no shortage of Gen Z entertainment options. Meanwhile, popular destinations like New York City and Los Angeles aren’t even on this year’s list.
The American dream of landing a well-paying job and settling in a house after college has become increasingly out of reach, so some people are giving up on their lives to seek greener pastures in the concrete jungle.
The Midwest is growing in popularity due to better affordability. The cost of living in the area is at least 30% cheaper than large coastal cities like New York City and Los Angeles. In fact, seven of the 10 best metropolitan areas for young homeowners are in the Midwest, according to a 2025 Consumer Affairs analysis of U.S. Census Bureau and Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) data.