If you’re a recent college grad trying to figure out your next move, finding an affordable rental markets that offers great job opportunities and lifestyle perks is essential. Curated by Realtor.com, here are the top 10 rental markets where recent grads can thrive, balancing affordable rent, a strong job market, and lifestyle benefits:
Affordable Rental Markets for College Grads
1. Austin, Texas
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 21.4%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 29.6%
- Average Commute Time: 26 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Known as a tech hub offering plenty of job opportunities.
- Annual SXSW festival, live music scene, and food paradise.
- Gorgeous nature to explore by foot, bike, or kayak.
2. Bloomington, Minnesota
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 19.9%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 26.7%
- Average Commute Time: 23 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Career opportunities at companies like The Toro Company and HealthPartners.
- Affordable rentals and a fun, friendly community.
- Attractions include the Japanese Garden and Mall of America.
3. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 21.7%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 24.9%
- Average Commute Time: 25 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Affordable rents, tech jobs, sports teams, and a vibrant arts scene.
- Presence of Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh.
- Crisscrossed by multiple bridges and known for its beautiful waterways.
4. Raleigh, North Carolina
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 21.4%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 28.8%
- Average Commute Time: 25 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Tech hub with plenty of job opportunities and affordable housing.
- Pleasant weather, free museums, and a buzzing live music scene.
5. Overland Park, Kansas
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 20.7%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 24.5%
- Average Commute Time: 22 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Affordable rent, great job prospects, and a friendly environment.
- Top-notch dining and a highly rated school system.
6. Richmond, Virginia
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 24.6%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 25.8%
- Average Commute Time: 24 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Affordable rent, job opportunities, and vibrant nightlife.
- Strategically located near beaches and mountains.
- Walkable downtown and a rich history around every corner.
7. Scottsdale, Arizona
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 24.4%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 22.1%
- Average Commute Time: 23 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Hot spot for finance, healthcare, aviation, and tech companies.
- Natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and golfers.
8. Beaverton, Oregon
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 22.9%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 25.8%
- Average Commute Time: 26 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Nike’s home base and near Portland but more affordable.
- Affordable rentals, a strong job market, and a vibrant cultural scene.
9. St. Louis, Missouri
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 21.7%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 24.7%
- Average Commute Time: 25 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Low cost of living and a hot job market.
- Median rent of just over $1,000 and a wealth of outdoor activities.
10. Atlanta, Georgia
- Rent-to-Income Ratio: 26.7%
- Share of College Grad-Friendly Jobs: 24.8%
- Average Commute Time: 28 minutes
- Why It’s Great:
- Booming job market in finance, tech, and health services.
- Affordable living and a thriving cultural scene.
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Finding the Right Balance
These top 10 cities offer a mix of job opportunities, lifestyle perks, and affordable rental markets, making them ideal for recent graduates. Whether you’re starting your career in tech, healthcare, or creative industries, these cities have something for everyone.
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