A common reaction after graduation from college is “Now what?” You have the degree, but where do you go? If you are lucky enough to choose which state you’d like to live in, consider these seven options.
Colorado
Colorado is perhaps best known for its mountains and legalization of marijuana. However, there is also great potential for new grads in Colorado because of its growing job market, particularly in the tech sector. And regardless of which state you hail from, Colorado’s relatively mild climate is pleasant for most people.
You may want to start considering details like arranging car shipping to Colorado or finding friends to co-own a home. Commencement isn’t too far off, and you can never be too prepared for a significant life change like this one.
Minnesota
Minnesota, like most of the Midwest, flies under the radar for much of the US population, who tends to flock to the coasts. But the Twin Cities metropolitan area of Minneapolis and Saint Paul offer job growth in business and technology as well as medical fields. Minnesota may be cold, but it is also naturally gorgeous, and its large cities are hosts of vibrant culture.
Ohio
Ohio is another Midwest standout in terms of potential for new college graduates. Cincinnati and Columbus are especially affordable and have high job growth in IT jobs. You will also find a high population of younger people in Columbus, as it is the home of The Ohio State University.
Missouri
St. Louis, MO boasts a very low unemployment rate as well as high affordability. While growing job markets tend to be in fields like accounting and business, the combination of affordability and employment makes Missouri a statistically smart choice for relocation after graduation for anyone.
Texas
Texas has a lot to offer recent grads, especially in terms of affordability and lack of state income tax. Forbes notes three Texan cities (Amarillo, El Paso, and Laredo) as excellent places to buy a home. With plenty of sun but wide variation in climate across its massive surface area, you will find somewhere suitable in Texas.
Indiana
Indiana is yet another strong contender as a choice for post-graduate life, mainly because of the economically robust and culturally vibrant Indianapolis. Like the other states on this list, Indiana is also highly affordable. There is especially prominent job growth in the medical field in Indiana.
Georgia
Georgia is home to both a low cost of living and thriving metropolitan areas, making it another great place for recent college graduates. The sunny South might have you looking for a lawn care specialist, but if you’re like most, the rarity of snowfall will make moving to Georgia worth it.
Wrap up
The ultimate best state to live in is your choice alone as you embark on this next stage of life, but these seven states are worth your consideration. Whether you prefer the sunnier Texas or Georgia or milder Minnesota or Colorado, you’re sure to find an affordable place to start fresh.
