Looking at 31 job market and socio-economic metrics, such as job opportunities, employment growth, and monthly average starting salary, personal finance platform WalletHub ranked the best cities for jobs in 2025. The top 10 list is mostly east coast, though Arizona had three cities place in the top 10, including the number one slot. The ranking is based on a compilation of scores from various individual categories, so depending on the decision factors you care most about (e.g., average commute time), you may want to look at what cities rank for your priority criteria.

What Are The Top 10 Best Cities For Jobs In 2025

1. Scottsdale, AZ
2. Pittsburgh, PA
3. Columbia, MD
4. South Burlington, VT
5. Portland, ME
6. Charleston, SC
7. Chandler, AZ
8. Washington, DC
9. Tempe, AZ
10. Orlando, FL

Scottsdale took the top spot with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, as well as one of the highest median household incomes in the country. It also placed high for quality-of-life factors, such as recreation and safety. The second-ranking Pittsburgh came in first place for most job opportunities. Third place Columbia came in first for median average household income.

Why Strong Overall Job Market Growth Matters To Your Individual Career

If you’re looking for a job and can relocate, targeting areas with strong job market growth can make your individual job search easier. However, even if you’re not looking, you may find yourself impacted by a layoff or other company shock, at which point you’ll be glad you’re in a growing market. Your salary growth may be higher in growth markets as employers compete for talent. Your career progression may be faster as employers sometimes use staff development and advancement as a retention tool.

What To Do If You Can’t Relocate

Even if you’re not in a position to relocate right now, keeping your eye on fast-growth job markets gives you a head start should your job situation change. If you’re a consultant or digital nomad with a fully remote career, expand your client prospecting to growth markets. Employers may be so strapped for workers that they are open to virtual help. If you can swing a hybrid arrangement – winter in Scottsdale, fall in Burlington – tapping into these growth markets can improve your quality of life, as well as career.

How To Land A Job In A New City

If you’re new to a city, make sure prospective employers know you’re committed. If you don’t yet have a full-time address, at least have a timetable and plan for moving. Become familiar with the local market – e.g., competitors, regional market trends – so that when you’re discussing an employer’s business needs, you refer to their local conditions and not how things were done in your former city. Get involved with local professional associations and groups to build a network of insiders who will know about local opportunities and who can vouch for you to their peers.

Of course, overall good job search best practices still apply. Cities with flourishing job markets attract job seekers who follow the money. With increased competition, you need to be an attractive candidate to land your dream job. This means you need to have a compelling resume, build a supportive network and interview well.