
We are here to show that outstanding employment prospects are not solely dependent on a city’s population size. In reality, our goal is to highlight the wide variety of fantastic work opportunities in less crowded but no less unique American locations. We have painstakingly produced an authoritative reference outlining the best small and mid-sized U.S. cities for jobs. that offer promising chances for job seekers using the extensive data offered by Indiahires, coupled with insightful information on city populations and dimensions. We present information on the industries that are most likely to provide you with career chances in this guide.
Let’s face the unavoidable fact that big cities have recently monopolized the spotlight and gotten all the attention. But it’s time we shifted our attention and gratitude to the little cities that frequently go unrecognized.
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BEST JOB MARKETS IN THE U.S. FOR SMALL TO MID-SIZED CITIES
According to the analytical results of our most recent Indiahires survey, it was found that a remarkable 46% of participants described themselves as “explorers” in their most recent job search activities. These people showed a willingness to look outside of their hometowns, states, and even geographical areas of the country for fresh chances. These extraordinary little and mid-sized cities are spread throughout every region of the United States, so if you’re looking for a new place to explore, they can hold a plethora of intriguing possibilities for you.
10 best small cities with the most job opportunities:
1. Bellevue, WA
Bellevue, located just a 15-minute drive from the busy metropolis of Seattle, offers a rare combination of benefits, combining the allure of a small town with easy access to a significant urban hub. Bellevue, Washington, which has a population of 139,820 people, has a booming job market with a whopping 21,147 open positions right now. This equals an amazing ratio of 151 jobs for every 1,000 people. Notably, Bellevue’s main industries focus on the world of technology, particularly computer hardware and IT, as a result of its proximity to Seattle, a known center for the tech industry.
Therefore, Bellevue stands out as the perfect location for you if you want to enjoy all that Seattle has to offer while embracing a more personal and community-focused lifestyle.
2. Tempe, AZ
As workers in Tempe, Arizona, have the potential to earn up to 17% more than the state’s average wage, this city is a desirable location for job searchers. Investigating the potential career options in Tempe is definitely valuable due to this huge income advantage. This city is especially promising for those who work in or are looking for jobs in the healthcare sector.
The fact that there are currently 620 job vacancies in the healthcare industry alone shows that Tempe has a strong and active job market for healthcare professionals. Tempe offers a welcoming environment for locating satisfying employment in the healthcare industry, regardless of whether you are an experienced healthcare professional or starting a new career path in this sector.
3. Salt Lake City, UT
The fact that there are currently 616 job vacancies in the healthcare sector in Salt Lake City, Utah, is evidence of the city’s thriving healthcare market. The added benefit of choosing Salt Lake City as your new home and place of employment is that you will make about 12% more money than the state average. The financial benefits of pursuing career prospects in Salt Lake City’s growing healthcare sector are highlighted by this alluring wage premium.
Moreover, Salt Lake City provides a wide variety of leisure and cultural activities outside the field of employment, offering an enriching and rewarding lifestyle. Salt Lake City offers a well-rounded experience that makes it a great place to find your next job opportunity. This includes exploring the city’s breathtaking natural landscapes, immersing oneself in the vibrant arts and music scene, and taking advantage of the many dining and entertainment options.
4. Sioux Falls, SD
A small but charming city called Sioux Falls now has a growing healthcare sector, making it a top choice for anybody looking to work in this business. Therefore, it would be foolish to ignore the prospects present in Sioux Falls if you have a passion for the healthcare industry. The city itself boasts stunning settings, including the charming falls on the Big Sioux River, in addition to its thriving job market.
You can profit from the gratifying nature of the healthcare sector and potentially earn much more money by opting to work in Sioux Falls. In fact, Sioux Falls offers professionals the chance to earn up to an amazing 145% more than the state’s average salary. This financial benefit accentuates Sioux Falls’ allure as a desirable location for healthcare workers since it combines a strong sector with a breathtaking natural landscape.
5. Springfield, MO
Currently, Springfield is a thriving center for the healthcare sector, making it a desirable location for people looking for work in this business. For those looking to work in healthcare in a smaller city, Springfield offers a wealth of chances with an outstanding 840 job postings in the healthcare industry alone. This makes it a great option for anyone who prefers the ease and attractiveness of a smaller city to the noise and bustle of a big city.
Beyond its thriving job market, Springfield provides a wide range of fascinating events and attractions to improve your quality of life. Whether you enjoy the outdoors or wildlife, you will enjoy visiting the renowned Dickerson Park Zoo, where a wide variety of fascinating creatures may be seen up close. Additionally, the captivating Fantastic Caverns provide a unique underground adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of natural cave formations. With a variety of attractions like these, Springfield guarantees that there will always be something captivating and educational to experience during your free time.
Completing the top ten:
6. Akron, OH – 82 jobs/1,000
7. Knoxville, TN – 78 jobs/1,000
8. Grand Rapids, MI – 75 jobs/1,000
9. Fort Collins, CO – 67 jobs/1,000
10. Peoria, AZ – 64 jobs/1,000
10 mid-size cities with the most job openings:
1. Orlando, FL
Orlando, known as the world’s theme park capital, offers more than just amusement park activities; it’s also a great place to look for a job. Orlando currently offers a wide variety of job possibilities, with a staggering 42,229 positions being posted. Due to its wealth of options, Orlando is a desirable location for job seekers from a variety of industries. Notably, the city’s thriving healthcare business and the numerous opportunities it offers for individuals in this field are highlighted by the astounding 1,201 current job openings in the healthcare sector.
Orlando has a strong work market in addition to a favorable financial environment. Orlando’s average wage is an amazing 18.58% greater than the state average, outpacing it by a significant margin. People that benefit from this financial edge have comfortable incomes that allow them to take advantage of Orlando’s many leisure opportunities in addition to meeting their basic needs.
If you have more money, you can take full advantage of the city’s exciting entertainment offerings as well as popular attractions like Disney World. Orlando promises a dynamic and enriching way of life, whether you choose to immerse yourself in the magic of the theme parks, explore the diverse culinary scene, or take in the vibrant arts and culture.
In conclusion, Orlando is a place bursting with professional options in addition to being a city of exhilarating theme parks. Orlando stands as a standout choice for job seekers who seek professional advancement and an exciting, rewarding life enhanced by the city’s spectacular attractions thanks to its wide job market, notably in the healthcare sector, and the alluring financial advantages it offers.
2. St. Louis, MO
With a stunning ratio of 151 jobs per 1,000 residents, St. Louis emerges as a serious candidate for the title of the finest mid-sized city for finding employment. The city, which has a population of 315,685 people, provides job searchers with a promising work market. Currently, the sector with the most job openings in health services, indicating the booming healthcare industry in St. Louis.
There are now 982 employment openings in this industry, however, it is crucial to move quickly because they are likely to be filled quickly. Competition for these jobs is sure to increase once word spreads that St. Louis is not just well-known for its employment opportunities but also for being the origin of the renowned soft drink, 7-Up.
Therefore, St. Louis offers a tempting option for those seeking employment in a dynamic mid-sized metropolis. Its good job-to-population ratio and thriving health services sector indicate plenty of prospects for career advancement. The historical significance of the city as the origin of 7-Up also lends a fascinating and distinctive element to the overall allure of working and living in St. Louis.
3. Tacoma, WA
Tacoma is a fantastic place for job searchers to look for employment because it is tucked between the two thriving and highly sought-after cities of Portland and Seattle. Tacoma offers the best of both worlds thanks to its advantageous location—close access to these hip cities and the benefits of a distinctive local environment.
With an outstanding 278 job openings now listed on job boards, the healthcare sector holds the top spot in Tacoma. For people looking for chances in this industry, the city’s vibrant healthcare scene offers a variety of options. Additionally, Tacoma’s general job market is booming, offering a stunning 29,506 positions across a variety of industries, providing a wide choice of employment options for job seekers.
Living in Tacoma has a number of noticeable benefits, including a lower cost of living than in Seattle, which is a nearby city. Tacoma is a desirable option for anyone looking for a nice living without sacrificing their employment possibilities because of its affordability. Tacoma is a more desirable option for people looking for a slightly drier environment because it also has a milder rainfall pattern than Seattle.
Tacoma provides a variety of leisure activities in addition to a strong job market and affordable housing. Tacoma offers many of possibilities for a meaningful and well-rounded existence, whether you’re interested in learning more about the city’s rich cultural heritage, touring its many museums and art galleries, or enjoying outdoor recreation activities like hiking or visiting neighboring Mount Rainier.
4. Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati, which is well-known for being the birthplace of America’s first baseball team, attracts job seekers looking for their next employment opportunity. The city’s significant cultural heritage and long history add to its allure. Cincinnati offers good opportunities for job seekers thanks to a burgeoning job market.
Cincinnati has an exceptional work-to-population ratio of 138 jobs per 1,000 residents, indicating a welcoming atmosphere for job searchers. This figure demonstrates the city’s dedication to giving its citizens plenty of employment options. Cincinnati also has a special relationship with the film industry because it is the hometown of famed director Steven Spielberg, which heightens the city’s charm and serves as a source of creative inspiration.
Once more, the top sector in Cincinnati is the healthcare industry, which has a large number of available positions. The city’s thriving healthcare business and the need for specialists in this field are shown by the 1,373 job openings in the sector at the moment.
Cincinnati not only has a thriving job market, but it also has a wide variety of cultural attractions, historical sites, and leisure pursuits. The city offers many possibilities to immerse oneself in art, history, and entertainment, from touring the renowned Cincinnati Museum Center to seeing iconic locations like the Cincinnati Music Hall.
5. Richmond, VA
The oldest important city in the nation, Richmond, the capital of Virginia, has a significant history in the United States. Richmond is the perfect place for you to live and work if you have a strong respect for historical significance. The city’s ancient landmarks and rich heritage combine to create a special ambiance that combines the allure of the past with the possibilities of the present.
As one of the nation’s oldest major cities, Richmond, the state capital of Virginia, has a special place in American history. Richmond is the perfect place for you if you have a strong appreciation for residing in and working near significant historical sites. The city’s rich history and iconic locations produce a distinctive environment that combines the allure of the past with the possibilities of the present.
Living and working in Richmond gives you the opportunity to be surrounded by the physical remains of American history. Richmond offers a live experience entwined with the history of the country, whether you explore the renowned Virginia State Capitol building, constructed by Thomas Jefferson, or wander along Monument Avenue, filled with monuments honoring significant figures. Because of the city’s commitment to preserving its historical treasures, its citizens can actually live and work among the echoes of the past.
Rounding out the mid-sized top 10 cities:
6. Tampa, FL has 128 jobs/1,000
7. Minneapolis, MN has 128 jobs/1,000
8. Pittsburgh, PA has 128 jobs/1,000
9. Des Moines, IA has 128 jobs/1,000
10. Chandler, AZ has 128 jobs/1,000
20 top cities that have the most popular job industries
We have knowledge of the small and mid-sized cities that offer a wealth of employment chances, but it’s just as crucial to comprehend the blooming industries that exist in these cities. In this investigation, we’ll examine the industries that are now on the rise and pinpoint the city that is currently the hub for those looking to work in these fields.
We may learn a lot about the industries that are thriving and offering bright career opportunities by analyzing the economic environments of different cities. Individuals can locate the best city to pursue their job goals and make well-informed judgments about their career routes by being aware of these trends.
We’ll reveal the industries that are now expanding significantly and pinpoint the city that stands out as the hub for these particular businesses, from burgeoning tech hubs to medical advances. We are able to create a thorough picture of the chances available to ambitious professionals in various cities by looking at variables like employment availability, industry trends, and economic forecasts.
We hope to help job seekers find rewarding employment by emphasizing the sectors that are expanding and identifying the locations that are leading these sectors. Individuals will be able to choose their professional routes with knowledge, locate the cities with the best prospects for their selected careers, and take advantage of the exciting changes that lie ahead thanks to this exploration.
MORE THAN 42,000 HEALTHCARE JOBS
St. Louis, Missouri, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Orlando, Florida are three mid-sized cities that offer good employment prospects. Despite being smaller than metropolises, these communities have a variety of sectors and vibrant job markets that support their growth and vitality.
On the other hand, smaller communities like Sioux Falls, SD, Knoxville, TN, Little Rock, AR, and Boise, ID, offer particular benefits for job seekers. These locations offer strong employment markets and a supportive atmosphere for career advancement while having low populations.
The healthcare sector continues to shine as a significant sector across the US in the middle of this diverse landscape. The ongoing demand for healthcare services and the crucial function they serve in society are reflected in this persistent development. The healthcare sector offers a variety of tasks and professions that improve communities’ general well-being in addition to providing necessary medical care.
Tens of thousands of employment openings exist within this vast market right now, indicating a favorable opportunity for people to enter the healthcare sector. Further improving the chances for job searchers to land opportunities and build rewarding careers in healthcare is the industry’s severe labor shortage.
The urgent need for specialists to perform these crucial tasks is highlighted by the scarcity of healthcare staff. The need covers a wide spectrum of disciplines and skill sets, from doctors and nurses to allied health professionals and support employees. For those who are interested in a career in healthcare, this gives a great opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives while simultaneously having a secure and fulfilling job.
COMPUTER HARDWARE IS BOOMING WITH
32,000 JOBS
The mid-sized cities of Miami, FL, Raleigh, NC, and Des Moines, IA offer job seekers fascinating opportunities. These communities offer robust job markets and a variety of industries that support their economic growth and vitality while being smaller in size than major metropolises.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, stands out among the small cities as a good location for job seekers. For those wishing to start their careers in this thriving city, Fort Lauderdale provides distinctive benefits and a favorable job market despite its smaller size.
It is not surprising that the computer hardware industry is experiencing a considerable boom given the growing importance of computers in our daily lives. The need for computer hardware specialists is expanding as technology develops and advances. This pattern emphasizes how important this sector is to maintaining our digital infrastructure.
In this thriving environment, there are presently 32,299 available employment in the computer hardware sector, offering a wide range of chances for anyone with knowledge of this area. Minneapolis, Minnesota is a hub for job seekers looking for computer hardware because 1,194 of these positions are located there.
This plethora of employment opportunities in the computer hardware sector reflects the expanding demand for qualified people to design, build, and maintain computer systems and components. The industry offers a variety of professions and career pathways to accommodate a wide range of interests and skill sets, from hardware engineers and technicians to network administrators and cybersecurity specialists.
35,000 ACCOUNTING JOBS AVAILABLE RIGHT NOW
Durham, North Carolina, and Scottsdale, Arizona are two mid-sized cities that have great career chances. These communities have a variety of sectors that support their economic growth and vitality while being smaller in size than big metropolitan areas.
Plano, Texas, stands out among the small cities as a desirable location for people seeking to launch their careers in accounting or finance. Even though it is a smaller city, Plano has distinct advantages and a promising job market in these industries, providing a wide range of possibilities for aspiring professionals.
There are many chances around the nation in the accounting and financial sector, which has experienced extraordinary growth. The importance of this business has grown, and the variety of jobs available as a result of its expanding reach. Individuals pursuing opportunities in these industries have a wide selection of possibilities to pick from, with a total of 35,897 accounting and finance job postings.
Minneapolis, Minnesota, stands out among the cities with the most accounting job openings, boasting 1,642 open positions right now. The city’s strong accounting job market reflects the significant need for qualified accounting specialists in this area. For those looking for work and career prospects in the accounting and finance sector, Minneapolis offers an appealing alternative.
Durham, North Carolina’s largest industry is accounting and finance, which also has a lot of job openings there. This profusion of employment options reflects the city’s booming financial sector and enhances its allure as a destination for anyone wishing to launch their accounting or finance careers in a small city environment.
NO SHORTAGE OF JOBS IN THE IT INDUSTRY
Tampa, Florida, and Bellevue, Washington, are two mid-sized towns that have good career prospects for anyone looking for work in the information technology (IT) industry. While having a certain amount of tech expertise is crucial to succeed in the IT industry, once you have that skills and knowledge, you have access to a wide range of work opportunities.
There is good news for you if you want to work in the IT sector and are looking for a small or mid-sized city to start your career. IT is ranked as the top industry in both Bellevue, Washington, and Tampa, Florida, providing a variety of job opportunities for IT workers.
The IT sector has developed into a significant and vibrant sector in the modern world, generating innovation, digital transformation, and technological improvements in a variety of fields. Organizations rely significantly on IT specialists to build, support, and manage their digital infrastructure and software systems as technology continues to advance.
IT job searchers can take advantage of the thriving and encouraging ecosystems present in both places by concentrating on Tampa and Bellevue. With numerous employment opportunities, industry partnerships, and accessibility to cutting-edge technologies and resources, these locations provide an atmosphere that is favorable for IT professionals to succeed.
THE AEROSPACE INDUSTRY IS TAKING OFF AT THE MOMENT
Small communities like Sunnyvale, California, and Huntsville, Alabama, stand out as desirable locations for people looking for jobs in the aerospace sector. A career in aerospace might be ideal for you if you’re interested in a line of work that can take you to the moon or at least high up in the clouds.
A wide range of operations are included in the aerospace sector, such as the development, design, and production of flight vehicles for both aviation and space exploration. Numerous employment openings have arisen in this industry as a result of the aerospace technology industry’s constant advancement, providing promising opportunities for aspiring experts.
Aerospace is the leading industry in both Sunnyvale, California, and Huntsville, Alabama, demonstrating the industry’s strong presence and expansion in these tiny towns. This illustrates the wealth of career prospects available to those with a love for aerospace and a desire to enhance aviation technology.
Modern engineering know-how, innovation, and cutting-edge research define the aerospace sector. Working in this profession gives you the opportunity to take part in projects that push the limits of human exploration and technology development. For those with a passion for flying and space exploration, the aerospace sector offers a variety of career opportunities, from designing and building aircraft to developing spacecraft and satellite systems.
Job seekers with an interest in the aerospace sector can take advantage of the robust aerospace ecosystems present in these places by concentrating on smaller areas like Sunnyvale and Huntsville. These cities provide a distinctive combination of chances, assets, and knowledge, fostering an environment favorable to career advancement in the aerospace industry.