Talk about some pomp and circumstance: As college graduation season rolls through Texas, three cities in the Lone Star State are passing with flying colors as they’re regarded among the best in the country for new graduates.
Redfin compiled last month a roundup of the best American cities for graduates to begin their careers, evaluating big, mid-sized and small U.S. cities on a mix of criteria such as starting salaries, homeownership affordability and work-life balance opportunities. Zeroing in on large U.S. cities, Texas dominated with three placements in the top 10.
Among Texas metros, Dallas scored the highest and earned the No. 4 overall ranking for new graduates, with an average early-career salary earning touted at $67,451 annually alongside a typical starter home price of $240,000. Specifically, Redfin analysts heralded Dallas for its career growth potential and smaller percentage of monthly incomes allocated to rent costs.
“The Texas city is known for legendary barbecue spots and live music, perfect for young professionals unwinding after a long week of work,” the report read in part. “Dallas is unique because it’s well-rounded; it is relatively affordable, fairly high-paying for early-career workers, and there’s plenty to do for young professionals.”
On the opposite side of the state, Houston came in at No. 6 among large American cities, with average early-career earnings listed at $65,369 and typical starter home prices amounting to about $215,000. Houston received specific kudos for its variety of industries and job opportunities, lower rent prices and its strong bounce back after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Houston has a mix of industries, from aerospace engineering at NASA to healthcare at the Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest medical facility. It’s also known for vibrant nightlife, including live music venues and food halls,” the report noted.
Not to be excluded, the Capital City, aka Austin, checked in at No. 10, with average early-career earnings reported at $72,025 and starter home prices costing about $276,600. With robust job opportunities and a strong work-life balance, the capital city accumulated top marks and praise among recent graduates.
“The ‘Live Music Capital of the World’ is home to music venues and festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits, and places like Barton Springs Pool and Lady Bird Lake also make it a paradise for water lovers,” the analysis added. “Industries like healthcare, tech and education offer many entry-level jobs, and Austin’s slow housing market makes it a good time for young buyers to break in.”
So, which large cities garnered top honors? Washington, D.C. nabbed the No. 1 position, followed by Omaha, Nebraska at No. 2 and Boston, Massachusetts ranked No. 3. Non-Texas cities peppered elsewhere throughout the Top 10 included Chicago, Illinois (No. 5), St. Louis, Missouri (No. 7), San Diego, California (No. 8) and Miami, Florida (No. 9).