What are the Best Metro Areas for Millennials?

Millennials are the most mobile generation, frequently packing up and moving for better jobs, less expensive housing and more interesting social opportunities.

Apartment List compiled data from more than 24,000 Millennials about the strength of the job market, the affordability of housing and the livability of the area to determine the Top 10 Metros for Millennials. With livability in mind, millennials take a look at weather, safety and access to activities and nightlife.

1. Pittsburgh, PA

With tech giants such as Apple, Facebook and Google opening offices in Pittsburgh, this city has a thriving job market that attracts young, educated millennials looking for interesting, high-paying work. In addition to the great jobs, Pittsburg has low crime rates and a friendly population that makes becoming part of the community fun.

Pittsburgh offers some of the most affordable housing in the United States. The cost of buying a home here is significantly lower than in many other major cities, making it an attractive option for millennials who are often burdened with student debt.

Enjoy a great quality of life. Pittsburgh boasts a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues. The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and various art galleries provide endless entertainment options. The city is surrounded by beautiful parks and green spaces. Point State Park, Schenley Park, and the Three Rivers Heritage Trail offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and biking to kayaking and picnicking.

2. Provo, UT

Provo, UT is one of the best metros in the country for millennials looking to save up and buy a new home. The area has incredibly low millennial unemployment rates and a wide range of affordable housing, perfect for anyone looking to increase savings or enjoy a more exciting lifestyle. Less than an hour’s drive to Salt Lake City and surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, Provo is an up-and-coming city.

Provo is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. The city has numerous initiatives to promote green living, including extensive bike lanes, public transportation options, and community recycling programs.

Provo is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The city offers easy access to hiking, skiing, rock climbing, and water sports. Popular spots like Provo Canyon, Sundance Resort, and Utah Lake offer year-round recreational activities. The abundant outdoor activities encourage a healthy and active lifestyle. Millennials who prioritize wellness and fitness will find Provo ideal for maintaining their health and well-being.

3. Madison, WI

Many millennials feel drawn to the college town of Madison, Wis., and want to stay. This metro area has low millennial unemployment rates and high wage rates, making it easy for them to enjoy the area’s great dating and entertainment scene.

Compared to coastal cities, Madison offers more affordable housing options. Whether you’re looking for a chic downtown condo or a cozy suburban home, Madison’s real estate market is more accessible to millennials, especially first-time homebuyers.

The vibrant arts scene includes numerous music festivals, art fairs, and theater productions. Nestled between two lakes, Mendota and Monona, Madison offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Residents can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. The city also has extensive bike paths, hiking trails, and parks, promoting an active lifestyle.

4. San Antonio, TX

Texas metros like San Antonio are great for millennials that want to enjoy an affordable, but exciting lifestyle, great jobs and beautiful natural settings. San Antonio has a growing economy and a unique culture that make it an exciting place to live. No longer seen as the little cousin to Austin, San Antonio is a millennial’s paradise with great dining, shopping and entertainment, without the saturation and high cost of living that Austin suffers from.

San Antonio’s economy is robust and diversified, with strong sectors in healthcare, education, military, and tourism. Major employers include the San Antonio Military Medical Center, USAA, and H-E-B, providing a wide range of job opportunities.

San Antonio is rich in cultural heritage, with iconic landmarks like the Alamo, the River Walk, and a vibrant arts scene. The city’s numerous festivals, such as Fiesta San Antonio, celebrate its diverse culture and history, offering endless entertainment options. The city’s warm climate and numerous parks, such as Brackenridge Park and San Pedro Springs Park, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or kayaking, San Antonio’s natural beauty is perfect for an active lifestyle.

5. Columbus, OH

Unlike other areas around Columbus, Ohio, this metro has a stronger job market, making it an obvious choice for anyone looking to settle down. In addition to its affordable cost of living, Columbus has a lively restaurant, bar and music scene. A zoo, museums and lots of green space round out the plethora of things to keep any millennials entertained.

Columbus offers relatively low housing costs compared to other major metropolitan areas. Millennials can find affordable homes in a variety of styles and neighborhoods, making homeownership attainable even for those just starting their careers.

Columbus has a robust and diverse job market. Key industries include education, healthcare, technology, finance, and retail. Major employers like Ohio State University, Nationwide Insurance, and tech companies such as IBM and CoverMyMeds provide ample job opportunities. The city’s growing startup ecosystem, supported by organizations like Rev1 Ventures and the Columbus Innovation District, attracts entrepreneurs and tech-savvy millennials eager to innovate and grow their careers.

6. Charleston, SC

Of the metros studied in Apartment List’s study, Charleston, S.C., had the highest livability ratings, making it a great place for millennials looking to live it up close to the coast. Unlike other costal metros, Charleston is affordable enough for millennials to live comfortably. An up-and-coming restaurant scene is another reason this metro is a millennial’s destination.

This picturesque city offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities that make it an ideal location for young professionals and families. The variety of housing options, from historic homes in the downtown area to modern apartments in burgeoning neighborhoods, caters to diverse preferences and budgets.

One of the largest ports on the East Coast, the Port of Charleston drives significant economic activity and job creation, particularly in logistics and international trade. Along with job opportunities, the charisma of this city is alluring. Charleston is famous for its warm and welcoming community. The friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community make it a pleasant place to live and build connections.

7. Omaha, NE

Even on a list of best metros for millennials, Omaha stands out for its affordability. In addition to an affordable cost of living, Omaha has a strong job market and an interesting art scene for its residents, not to mention a great music scene, thanks to bands like Bright Eyes, 311, The Faint, Cursive and Tilly and the Wall.

Along with affordable housing, Omaha has a promise of a great quality of life. Groceries, healthcare, transportation, and other everyday expenses are more budget-friendly, making it easier for young adults to manage their finances and save for the future.

Omaha is home to several higher education institutions, including Creighton University and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, providing ample opportunities for continuing education and professional development. Omaha is making significant strides in becoming a tech and innovation hub. The Silicon Prairie, as it’s often called, is attracting tech companies and startups, creating a dynamic and forward-thinking community. Programs and initiatives to support tech education and innovation are plentiful, making it an exciting place for tech-savvy millennials.

8. Oklahoma City, OK

Another affordable college town, Oklahoma City has something for everyone. This exciting metro has quirky culture with great bars, art and restaurants. The surrounding landscape is perfect for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.

Oklahoma City boasts a diversified economy with strong sectors in energy, aerospace, healthcare, and finance. The presence of major employers such as Chesapeake Energy, Devon Energy, and INTEGRIS Health provides a wide range of career opportunities.

Oklahoma City offers a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art, the Civic Center Music Hall, and various live music spots ensure there’s always something to do. Millennials will find Oklahoma City checks off all the boxes.

9. Houston, TX

High ratings for its strong job market, livability and affordability make the Houston metro area a fantastic place for millennials. This great city has world-class museums, one of the best art scenes in the country and amazing restaurants and parks. 

Houston is known for its vibrant food and entertainment scene, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, music venues, and cultural attractions that cater to millennials’ interests. For sports enthusiasts, sports bars and venues will have you loving professional sports teams including the Astros, Texans, and Rockets.

Houston offers a mix of urban and suburban living, giving millennials the flexibility to choose a neighborhood that suits their lifestyle, whether they prefer a bustling city center or a quieter suburban area.

10. Minneapolis, MN

Of all the metros studied, Minneapolis had the highest share of millennial homeownership, in addition to high wages compared to rents. The main city in the Twin City group, Minneapolis has great restaurants and an exciting music scene.  

Minneapolis is home to several Fortune 500 companies like Target, Best Buy, and UnitedHealth Group, offering a robust job market, especially in industries like healthcare, finance, and technology, which are attractive to millennials.

Minneapolis is known for its progressive politics and social initiatives, which can be appealing to millennials who value inclusivity and social responsibility.

Some of the top cities to avoid due to weak job markets and low quality of life (includes dating, entertainment and cost of living) are Riverside, CA, Bridgeport, CT, Orlando, FL, North Port, FL, and Sacramento, CA.

As millennials look for their next adventure, or look to settle down in a vibrant area, options in cities with great economic opportunities, low cost of living, and dynamic y should keep these cities in mind for their next home.