The five most popular employment markets in the United States are all located in different states, yet they have several things in common. They’re located in midsize cities with a population below 2.3 million people. They’re situated in states with decent income taxes or no income taxes at all. And their climates allow for year-round outdoor activities.
They are: Austin, Texas; Nashville, Tenn.; Raleigh, N.C.; Salt Lake City; and Jacksonville, Fla.Â
Each of these markets has something different to offer, but they’re all great places to find a job.

1. AustinÂ
Known for its live music scene and its large student population. The city is also home to a number of high-tech companies, making it a great place for people in the tech industry.

- NashvilleÂ
The country music capital of the world and is also a hub for the healthcare industry. The city has a low cost of living and a lively downtown area.

- RaleighÂ
Part of the Research Triangle, which is home to three major research universities. The city also has a thriving tech industry and a low cost of living.

- Salt Lake City
A great place for outdoor enthusiasts. The city has numerous hiking and biking trails, and it’s also home to the world-famous ski resort, Park City.

- Jacksonville
A popular retirement destination, but it’s also a great place to find a job. The city has a growing economy and a low cost of living.
The Wall Street Journal, working with Moody’s Analytics, conducted a study of 300 metros to determine the areas with the strongest employment prospects. The five factors assessed were the unemployment rate, labor-force participation rate, job creation, labor-force expansion, and wage growth in 2021. To determine the best labor market in the United States, an average of those rankings was used. Larger places with more than one million residents were ranked separately from tiny ones.
The top five cities are all close to universities, state capitols, or high-tech businesses. Florida, Texas, and Tennessee have no personal income tax, while North Carolina and Utah have income and corporate tax rates of around 5%.Â
Here are the top jobs that are highest in demand in Austin, Texas:Â Â
- Registered NursesÂ
- Computer Systems AnalystsÂ
- Software DevelopersÂ
- Market Research AnalystsÂ
- Management AnalystsÂ
In Nashville, Tennessee, the following jobs are in high demand:Â
- Registered NursesÂ
- Medical AssistantsÂ
- Office ClerksÂ
- Sales RepresentativesÂ
- Customer Service RepresentativesÂ
The Raleigh, North Carolina metro area is projected to see the following jobs in high demand:Â
- Registered NursesÂ
- Computer Systems AnalystsÂ
- Accountants and AuditorsÂ
- Management AnalystsÂ
- Operations Research Analysts Â
The following jobs are projected to be in high demand in Salt Lake City, Utah:Â
- Registered NursesÂ
- Computer Systems AnalystsÂ
- Database AdministratorsÂ
- Network and Computer Systems AdministratorsÂ
- Information Security AnalystsÂ
The following occupations are expected to see high demand in Jacksonville, Florida:Â
- Registered NursesÂ
- Sales RepresentativesÂ
- Customer Service RepresentativesÂ
- General and Operations ManagersÂ
- Retail SalespersonsÂ
Employment prospects vary from city to city, but these five markets offer a variety of opportunities for job seekers. Whether you’re looking for a job in the tech industry, the healthcare industry, or the retail sector, you’re sure to find a city that’s a good fit for you.
The tech and entertainment hubs dominate the rankings in one area: the fastest-growing salaries. Here are the estimated wages for the 5 hottest job markets for each role:Â
- Registered Nurses: $60,000 – $85,000Â
- Computer Systems Analysts: $75,000 – $100,000Â
- Software Developers: $85,000 – $110,000Â
- Market Research Analysts: $50,000 – $70,000Â
- Management Analysts: $80,000 – $105,000Â
- Medical Assistants:$30,000 – $45,000Â
- Office Clerks : $25,000 – $35,000Â
- Sales Representatives:$50,000 – $70,000Â
- Customer Service Representatives:$30,00 -$45,000Â
- Accountants and Auditors: $60,000 – $80,000Â
- Management Analysts: $80,000 -$105,000Â
- Operations Research Analysts :$70,000 – $95,000Â
- Database Administrators: $75,000-$100,000Â
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators: $70,000-$95,000Â
- Information Security Analysts: $85,000-$110,000Â
- General and Operations Managers: $90,000-$115,00Â
- Retail Salespersons: $25,000-$35,000Â
Sources:
http://www.salaryexplorer.com/salary-survey.php?loc=229&loctype=1
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References:
- https://www.moneygeek.com/living/top-cities-job-seekers/#:~:text=Key%20Findings%3A,best%20cities%20for%20job%20seekers.
- https://www.beckersasc.com/asc-news/5-hottest-job-markets-ready-to-grow.html
- https://www.inc.com/minda-zetlin/hottest-job-markets-austin-nashville-denver-seattle-san-francisco-unemployment-wage-job-growth.html