Ann Arbor named best U.S. city for Gen Z graduates
Ann Arbor takes the crown as the top destination for Gen Z graduates in the country, according to RentCafe.com
RentCafe.com analyzed 122 metropolitan areas with populations over 300,000, using five key metrics that matter most to Gen Z (people born between 1996 and 2012): affordability, opportunity, culture, diversity, and overall livability.
The cities that rose to the top offer the ideal blend of career prospects and quality of life.
Based on this criteria, Ann Arbor took the crown as the top destination for Gen Z graduates in the country.
Gen Z makes up large percentage of population
“(Ann Arbor) is where Gen Z shines brightest,” the study found. “They make up the third-largest share of the population among all metros we looked at.
“Moreover, Ann Arbor ranks sixth for livability, so you get all the perks of a youthful city with plenty of green spaces, walkability, and a strong sense of community. Thanks to the University of Michigan and a great tech/startup scene, Ann Arbor blends college-town excitement with real career opportunities.
“With indie culture, affordable living, and a focus on wellness, Ann Arbor is the kind of place where Gen Z can truly feel at home.”
Top-shelf characteristics
Looking at the top 10 in the RentCafe.com study, many of the cities are regional economic hubs with growing industries, including in tech, health care and research — such as Boston and Seattle.
They’re also close to major universities, meaning there’s a steady influx of young people, cultural events and lifelong learning opportunities.
Some of the metros (like Lincoln, NE; Des Moines, IA; or Fayetteville, AR) also share a relative affordability compared to large urban centers, and that’s without compromising on quality of life: These are places that are clean; walkable; culturally active; and rich in green spaces, parks and recreational options.
One other Michigan city makes cut
Finally, you’re looking at metros whose citizens are civically active, RentCafe.com explained. There are tight-knit communities that offer a sense of belonging, and social connections are easy to make and maintain.
The only other Michigan city in the study’s top 20 was Lansing.
