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The Top 25 Cities for Recent Graduates' Careers
What city is best for you? Photo by: Franco Folini | CreativeCommons
Tania Khadder, Anna Hennings, Adam Starr, Alice Handley | WomenCo.
May 11, 2009
Now more than ever, it’s important to get the best bang for your buck. And there’s no question about it — when it comes to value, not every U.S. city is created equally.
Why chase a great salary if your rent swallows most of it, unemployment is skyrocketing and you spend two hours a day just to get to and from work?
So, which cities offer the most overall value in 2009?
WomenCo. has come up with the top 25 — and some may surprise you! After examining various city lists, weighing the rankings and taking note of our personal opinions, we’ve produced a list of cities that’s sure to offer something for everyone.
Our Criteria
We looked at cities’ growth rates, average salaries and costs of living.
We factored in average commute time — which, according to experts, has a colossal impact on your overall happiness.
We looked not only at unemployment figures, but also at the rate that unemployment has actually increased since February 2008.
Thinking of relocating for better job prospects? Need to compare two top contenders? Just curious to see where your city ranks? We’ve got you covered. Read on!

BrandiC286
almost 2 years ago
harleyjj, I doubt new graduates would have so much money to move out of the country.
DollyK2
almost 2 years ago
what happened to DC?
KoltonB
almost 2 years ago
The author(s) should double check themselves. Rochester, NY supposedly boasts the lowest commute time, but look at Oklahoma City. Just saying...
MaryG820
over 2 years ago
I lived in Detroit a few years ago, I never really experience a problem there. It has alot to offer good place to start. Besides my daughter lives, work and go to school there.
harleyjj
over 2 years ago
How about some international cities? I hate to burst your bubble, but the U.S. is not necessarily the only good place to work as a college graduate any more, if it ever was.
ShemekaS8
almost 3 years ago
I new tx would be top! There's so many people here from all over its crazy!
ShimelisG3
almost 3 years ago
i accept
LinusO
almost 3 years ago
Guys u realy need 2 spread ur wings a bit.wht i actualy mean is tht u should open up opportunities 4 students in other parts of the world specificaly Africa!or wht do u guys say nor think?
Malone
almost 3 years ago
it is dangerous to live in detroit i agree, that explains alot
Account Removed
almost 3 years ago
I am surprised not to find Phoenix, AZ or Albuquerque, NM on the list.
ShareeR12
about 3 years ago
probably because of how dangerous it is to live in detroit...
CandaceB218
about 3 years ago
Woo, go Austin and San Antonio!!! The crime sucks in San Antonio, but you soon know the know after living here for a while!
ThomasO272
about 3 years ago
Why not Detroit, Michigan??? If you've watched the news lately...that's why NOT Detroit, MI.
JohannaH55
about 3 years ago
why not Detroit Michigan I would like to stay close to home.
FrankW101
about 3 years ago
I have been to seven or eight of these cities and they have about one-fifth the economic power, prestige and upward mobility of New York City. I know pollution and cost of living enter in , but if Buffalo made it, you guys are on a different planet.