A Few Affordable & Fun Cities to put on your Radar for your 20's
By Yana Kouretas
Between figuring out your career, building relationships, and making time for yourself, the last thing you want to feel is conflicted over where you live. You’re navigating all of this newfound freedom and that could also mean you’re faced with the question of where you should call home. Whatever the reason—relocation due to your career or personal reasons—figuring out where to go next is just one more thing to add to your plate. Not only are you weighing the affordability aspect, but you’re also looking for a community, eating and drinking scene, outdoor activities, and more.
That’s where we come in. Moving can be scary….but it can also be the exciting start of a new journey. It’s no secret that big cities like New York and San Francisco are attractive to people in their 20s for a variety of reasons. However, a lot of people favor these booming places (for good reason), and tend to overlook some other gems across the country. Our list is not nearly comprehensive; but at the very least, we hope it helps you learn about different cities that don’t come with an astronomically high price tag. Just remember—you don’t have to move to these places to score better social and career opportunities and overall have a “better” experience in your 20s. Each city is what you make of it.
1. Chicago, Illinois
Each year, Niche ranks the best cities for young professionals based on data from the U.S. Census, FBI, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. It’s no surprise that Chicago made its way onto the list. Although the rent is not necessarily considered “affordable,” it does seem to be dropping. Younger people, particularly those from the midwest, are enticed by the ‘Windy City’’ due to its booming industry opportunities and vibrant food and entertainment scene. It’s a big city, but you can easily explore different neighborhoods and districts by foot. If you care: get ready to experience a true winter…but also a traditional-like summer that is complimented by the numerous beaches along Lake Michigan.
Median Rent: $2,460
*Courtesy of Pinterest
2. Arlington, Virginia
Located just across the Potomac River, Arlington offers a rare combination of high-paying job opportunities, restaurants, entertainment, and parks. Charming neighborhoods to lively, walkable areas add to the allure of a city that falls somewhere between the urban and the suburban. If you're occasionally drawn to a true city, the Washington Metro connects Arlington with our nation’s capital, but you can even walk there if you live near the border. Although Arlington’s cost of living is higher than the national average, it’s still considered affordable compared to some other major cities.
Media Rent: $2,275
*Courtesy of Pinterest
3. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis is like a hidden gem. While many people will hardly give the city a second glance—labeling it as a seemingly conventional midwestern city—it’s actually a great place for 20-year-olds looking for a big city with a slower pace of life. Yes, that exists. As the “happiest city in America,” Minneapolis draws in both families and young professionals, enticed by the strong job market, thriving dining scene, and proximity to dozens of lakes and trails. Minneapolis offers big city amenities, like museums and sports, while also exuding an approaching midwestern feel. If you’re hoping to settle someplace more permanent, you’ll also be impressed by the somewhat affordable rent prices.
Median Rent: $1,329
*Courtesy of Pinterest
4. Atlanta, Georgia
Southern Charm is on full display in Atlanta. The city truly has something for everyone: a flourishing dining scene, a balanced blend of urban and residential neighborhoods, concert venues, sports arenas, and lots of outdoor spaces. There’s no shortage of work opportunities either— Atlanta is billed as a major hub for several Fortune 500 companies. For young professionals, you’ll always have a new bar, restaurant, or coffee shop around the corner, to explore on the weekends. The cost of living in Atlanta is higher than the national average, however, it’s considered relatively affordable compared to cities like New York or San Francisco.
Median Rent: $1,617
*Courtesy of Pinterest
Honorable mentions:
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania
Cambridge Massachusetts
Austin, Texas
*Disclaimer: Median Rent Prices were compiled from Niche’s survey