You’re in your mid-twenties to late thirties, you’re rapidly ascending the ranks in your career, and you have a world of opportunity at your feet. The question is, where should you situate yourself to best prepare for a booming middle-adulthood? Ahead, five of the most millennial-friendly cities in America made for thriving in the present and the future.
It’s common knowledge that NYC is one of the most expensive places to live in the US, but with good reason: food, nightlife, culture, art, business; whatever you need, you're sure to find it in the Big Apple. Public transport is affordable and there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied and on budget as you grow your homeowner nest egg. Consider Astoria or Williamsburg for the atmosphere and millennial-friendly housing options. As long as you're willing to work hard (and play harder), there are few metropolises that can compete with The Five Boroughs.
In case you’ve been living under a rock with a wi-fi scrambler, Austin is fast becoming one of the most desirable relocation destinations in the country. Young people love it for its vibrant nightlife and music scene. Businesses love it for its central location. And everybody loves it for its breakfast tacos, brisket, and enviable restaurant culture. This “weird” wonderland offers festivals, a surplus of employment opportunities, and a more relaxed and easygoing vibe. Best of all, property is still relatively affordable.
In the "City of Brotherly Love," you can expect a lively atmosphere and lots of business opportunities, as well as a host of historical and cultural sites. (Does the Liberty Bell ring any bells?) Not only is rent relatively inexpensive, but the property ladder in Philly is a lot more accessible than places like NYC or Boston. Whether you’re a big fan of the Rocky movies, professional sports, or cheesesteaks, Philly is worth investigating.
If you love craft beer, excellent coffee, and delicious food — as well as a thriving art scene — then look no further than "Rip City." With a mass of microbreweries, oodles of green space, and a fitness and bicycle-friendly ethos, most millennials will feel right at home in this creative mecca. Amidst all of these benefits, it's no wonder this progressive city continues to draw the attention of many aspiring homeowners.
Think rainy Seattle is a total washout? Think again. As it turns out, it doesn't rain as often in the "Emerald City" as people say. Plus, there are a plethora of reasons why you should head here if you're a millennial. From the coffee culture to the fresh fish, Seattle’s world of wellness is also ideal for walking or cycling; choosing one of these options is the best way to take in the iconic skyline. Jobs are well-paid and plentiful and the cost of living is relatively reasonable. And, who could resist the lure of all those famous music venues?
While these five millennial magnets earned our top spots, the US has tons of trendy enclaves with booming entertainment districts, job prospects, and housing markets for you to choose from. The key to finding your little slice of homeowner heaven is determining what matters to you the most and what you can afford. With those guiding principles, and an experienced KW real estate agent by your side, you can’t go wrong.