10 Cities To Consider Living In As A College Graduate

Unfortunately your college days are over, and you’re looking for a city to live in besides your hometown or college town. Moreover, you are looking for a city that you can find a job, still have fun, and are also likely to find others your age. Moving across the country can be challenging if you attended a college near home, though it might be one of the best choices you have made. To give you an idea of some popular cities to live in as a recent college graduate,

1. Denver, CO

Denver is home to several well-known tech company hubs. It is also one of the best cities to live in if you want to pursue a tech career or a career in outdoor living. Denver also boasts more than career opportunities. With an aquarium, several art and scientific museums, and western history, Denver has so much culture waiting to be explored as a former frontier town. However, Denver is not stuck in the past. Denver is also located next to the Rocky Mountains and is only a short car ride from escaping into the wilderness!

2. Kansas City, MO

Kansas City, conveniently located during the Kansas River, happens to be a city among two states. Kansas City, also referred to as, “KC,” is home to many college graduates looking for a field in technology, yet there are many opportunities in the city. Additionally, it is a big city, so there are lots of things to do. Whether you would like to spend a day downtown, or are a sports fanatic, Kansas City most likely will have what you’re looking for. Since it is located in the heart of America, one can find affordable housing whether they are located in the city or in the metropolitan area.

3. Austin, TX

The capital of Texas just so happens to be one of the most popular cities to live after you receive that degree from college. Furthermore, Austin is surrounded with like-minded individuals, a growing technology industry, and lots of opportunities that surround the city. Some of the most popular destinations in the Austin area is Lake Travis, 6th Street, and events Austin puts on throughout the year, such as Austin City Limits. While the weather can be a bit hot in the summertime, Austin does experience fall and winter, unlike most other southern cities.

4. San Francisco, CA

If you enjoy the west coast, but are unsure of living in the most common California location, Los Angeles, try checking out San Francisco. The city of San Francisco is filled with young adults fresh out of college, with most of them moving to San Francisco with a type of college degree. Furthermore, San Francisco is located in the bay area of California, where there are plenty of activities to do throughout the year. Additionally, if you are looking for a city that is fairly close to the mountains, yet also has a beach, look no further.

5. Saint Louis, Missouri

Although Saint Louis is not one of the prettiest cities to live in after college, you are sure to find lots of opportunities within the city. Located in the midwest, Saint Louis is a growing city that has been through lots of change in the past few years. Since it was first known as the most dangerous city to live in, residents believe this is false as there are only parts of the city people know are dangerous; the city as a whole is not all that dangerous. However, Saint Louis is filled with day-time activities, parks, attractions, music entertainment, and home of Cardinals baseball and Blues Hockey. If you enjoy sports and are an active individual outdoors, consider checking out Saint Louis!

6. Washington, D.C.

If you’re a business person or are trying to land a job in a political or legal occupation, Washington, D.C. just might be the place for you. Known primarily as the nation’s capital, D.C. is known for its wealthy young individuals, and higher salaries. Though the cost of living in D.C. might be a bit out of your price range, you are sure to find lots of things to do, especially become a tourist. With the hundreds of old buildings, museums, and other historical attractions, this city will always keep you busy!

7. Boston, MA

Looking to land a job on the east coast instead of the midwest or west coast? Consider living in Boston, where you are sure to find a job in business, science, or manufacturing. Boston is known for it’s snowy winters, the Boston Marathon, its quick access by train to surrounding cities, such as New York City or Washington, D.C. Furthermore, Boston can be quite an expensive place. So, be sure to prepare a budget if you plan on moving to Boston!

8. Atlanta, GA

Another location to add to your potential list of cities to live in after graduating from college could also be Atlanta. If you are from the south originally, this might not be too much different from other southern cities. However, Atlanta is located in Georgia, and is primarily known for its occupations in business, science and arts, and manufacturing. If you enjoy a big city that is only a few hours from Florida’s emerald coast, consider moving to Atlanta!

9. Seattle, WA

If you’re a fan of cold weather, sports, quick access to Canada, and so many more winter activities, Seattle could very well be put on your cities to live after graduating list. Seattle is known for its beautiful winters, sports (Seahawks, Mariners, and Sounders FC), as well as its many large corporation jobs located in the city, such as Google, Amazon, Starbucks, and Boeing. Not only does the city overlook the Pacific ocean, but it also is home to some of the most beautiful ski resorts in the United States. If you are looking for a city to escape, drink lots of coffee, and enjoy seafood, check out Seattle!

10. Portland, OR

Located a few hours between San Francisco and Seattle, Portland is a bigger city, yet a small town community vibe. Although Portland receives lots of rain and snow throughout the year, it is home to some of the most beautiful forests and hikes in the world. Since it is a very environmental-friendly city, using your feet, a bike, or a bus to get around is the most common method – so if you don’t enjoy driving, this might be a perfect city to consider. Additionally, Portland is known for its many job occupations in technology, manufacturing, and recreation, so if you feel like you fit in one of these categories, make sure to check Portland out!

While these are only a few of the many cities to live in after graduating college, don’t over-think the decision! It’s great to get out into the real world and experience unfamiliarity. If you can think of more potential cities to live in after graduating feel free to list them below!