What are the best states for young professionals to live in?

Are you ready for a fresh start in 2025? Young adults across the United States are relocating in search of better job opportunities, vibrant social scenes, and more affordable places to live. Whether you’re looking to grow your career or simply change things up, finding the right place to call home is a big decision.

With 50 states and countless cities to choose from, narrowing down your options can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the research for you. In this guide, we’ve ranked the best states to live in for young adults in 2025, based on affordability, job markets, lifestyle, and overall appeal.

From bustling cities like Atlanta and Denver to charming coastal towns and mountain escapes, these states offer some of the best places to live in the U.S. for young adults, whether you’re chasing opportunity, nature, or a better quality of life.

Let’s dive into the top picks.

The Best States for Young Adults in 2025: An Overview

Below is a snapshot of the top states for young adults in 2025, ranked by cost of living, median income, and other factors. This overview table gives you a quick comparison of which states strike the best balance between affordability and earnings potential, helping you narrow down your options.

State	Region	Cost of Living (vs. U.S. Average)	Median Income (One Earner)	Largest City
Georgia	Southeast	8.7% lower	$62,401	Atlanta
Colorado	West	2.0% higher	$82,716	Denver
South Carolina	Southeast	4.1% lower	$61,635	Charleston
Oregon	Pacific Northwest	12.0% higher	$73,344	Portland
Maine	Northeast	12.1% higher	$68,951	Portland
Texas	South	7.3% lower	$63,448	Austin
North Carolina	Southeast	2.2% lower	$63,611	Raleigh
Utah	Mountain West	4.9% higher	$82,581	Salt Lake City
Tennessee	Southeast	9.5% lower	$61,951	Nashville
Minnesota	Midwest	4.9% lower	$74,083	Minneapolis

What makes a state a great place to live in for young adults?

We used several statistics in our ranking methodology for the best places to live for young professionals and adults. Here’s a breakdown of what each statistic means and why we chose it:

• Median Income (1 Earner): This gives a baseline idea of earning potential in each state. We focused on income levels for single earners to reflect what young professionals might expect early in their careers.
• Cost of Living Index: A state’s cost of living impacts how far your paycheck goes. We used cost-of-living index data to show how each state compares to the national average, whether it’s more affordable or more expensive.
• Population Growth Rate: A higher growth rate often signals opportunity—people are moving in because the state offers jobs, lifestyle appeal, or affordability. Conversely, negative growth might suggest economic or quality-of-life concerns.
• Median House Price: Buying a home might not be an immediate goal, but affordability matters long-term. We used median (not average) home prices to avoid skew from luxury listings.
• Job Opening Rate: A strong local economy is essential. We used each state’s seasonally adjusted job opening rate compared to the national average of 5.3% to assess employment opportunities.
• Most Popular Cities: We highlighted the largest or most rapidly growing cities in each state, since that’s where young adults tend to move for work, lifestyle, and community.

Editor’s Note: All cost-of-living, income, job market, and housing data in this guide was last updated in June 2025 using sources such as Redfin, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Exact sources linked above. 

The Top 10 Best States to Live in for Young Adults in 2025

For young adults who are growing their careers and looking for a place to call home, certain states stand out above the rest. These places to live not only offer job opportunities but also affordable living costs, vibrant cultural scenes, and a wide range of activities to keep your weekends busy.

Here are the 10 best states and best places for young adults to live in the U.S. in 2025:

1. Georgia
2. Colorado
3. South Carolina
4. Oregon
5. Maine
6. Texas
7. North Carolina
8. Utah
9. Tennessee
10. Minnesota

#1: Georgia

The Peach State, renowned for its southern charm, hospitality, and growing population, is the perfect place for young adults to make their home. Georgia has a little bit of everything; you could live in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, in the rolling hills of the Piedmont Region in Atlanta, on the coast in Savannah, or along the Chattahoochee River in Columbus.

• Cost of Living: 8.7% lower than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $62,401
• Population Growth Rate: +1.04%
• Median House Price: $374,700
• Job Opening Rate: 5.1%
• Most Popular Cities: Atlanta, Columbus, and Savannah

The warm, sunny weather enables locals to enjoy outdoor activities nearly year-round. Georgia also has mild winters, so if you’re not a fan of the cold, it’s a great place to avoid the snow. When it comes to job opportunities, many large companies are headquartered in Georgia, including The Home Depot, Coca-Cola, Delta, and Aflac. That means it’s a great place to start or grow your career.

The traffic in Atlanta can be intense, but smaller cities like Columbus are also great for young adults, especially since the cost of living is more affordable outside of Atlanta’s city limits. 

Discover our full guide to the best places to live in Georgia for young adults here! 

#2: Colorado

If you love the mountains, you’ll love Colorado! The Centennial State is home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding destinations in the country, including Breckenridge, Vail, and Aspen. It’s also home to a multitude of forests and four National Parks, making this state a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Cost of Living: 2% higher than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $82,716
• Population Growth Rate: +0.94%
• Median House Price: $640,000
• Job Opening Rate: 4.7%
• Most Popular Cities: Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aurora

The economy in Colorado is booming and includes industries like tourism, cybersecurity, and biotechnology. The job market is known for being one of the best in the United States, so finding a job may be easier in Colorado than in other states.

It’s important to know that the high altitude in Colorado can be hard to get used to—not to mention the winters, which can be pretty chilly if you’re used to a warmer climate. The housing market is also very pricey, which can be a negative for those looking to buy property.

Overall, Colorado is known as a friendly and beautiful place, and it’s a great state for young adults.

#3: South Carolina

In 2022, South Carolina had the most population growth of any other state, and for good reason! The Palmetto State is known for delicious food, a diverse culture, and friendly people. Whether you love the beaches or the mountains, South Carolina offers easy access to both. Plus, the cost of living is low compared to many states in the U.S.

• Cost of Living: 4.1% lower than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $61,635
• Population Growth Rate: +1.66%
• Median House Price: $403,600
• Job Opening Rate: 4.6%
• Most Popular Cities: Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville

The weather in South Carolina is great, with warm to hot summers and mild winters, depending on where you live. With such a vibrant job market and economy, finding your niche in the workforce should be easier than in other places, too. And of course, the food is delicious, with fresh seafood and Southern comfort food everywhere you go.

However, keep in mind that the weather in South Carolina can be stormy and uncomfortably warm at times. The starting salaries in South Carolina are also low compared to other states.

Ultimately, South Carolina is a great state for young adults to move to in 2025. It just depends on what kind of climate and cost of living you’re looking for!

Learn more about living in Greenville, South Carolina here.

#4: Oregon

Living in the South is great, but if you’re interested in the West Coast, Oregon is full of great career opportunities for young adults. Plus, the state’s forests, coastlines, and mountains are a beautiful combination for outdoor lovers. Young adults might also love the laid-back lifestyle that Oregon is known for, especially when comparing this state to some places on the East Coast.

• Cost of Living: 12.0% higher than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $73,344
• Population Growth Rate: +0.44%
• Median House Price: $521,500
• Job Opening Rate: 4.4%
• Most Popular Cities: Portland, Eugene, and Salem

There’s no sales tax in Oregon, so it’s a great place to save money on groceries and household essentials. If you’re a sports fan, you’ll appreciate Oregon’s sports culture, and foodies will enjoy the state’s many delicious restaurants.

However, no sales tax does mean that income taxes are a bit higher in Oregon. Homes are also more expensive here than in some of the other states on this list. Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, the weather can also be pretty wet and rainy—which can be tough if you’re moving from a state with lots of sunshine.

#5: Maine

Maine stands out as one of the best states for young adults seeking nature, safety, and a slower pace. This state is known for its picturesque coastal towns, beautiful lighthouses, and charming New England vibes. The cost of living in Maine is also relatively low when compared to other states on the East Coast.

• Cost of Living: 12.1% higher than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $68,951
• Population Growth Rate: +0.38%
• Median House Price: $375,800
• Job Opening Rate: 4.1%
• Most Popular Cities: Portland, Bar Harbor, and Camden

There’s a reason why Maine’s natural beauty is top-rated in the United States; it’s an amazing place for nature lovers and hikers. The seafood is fresh and delicious, especially on the state’s long coastline, and the weather during the summer is incredible, with temperatures rarely rising above 80 degrees.

Of course, the trade-off is that Maine winters are often freezing. The state is also pretty isolated in terms of geographic location, making travel to nearby cities and states inconvenient. Despite this, many young adults are choosing Maine for its natural beauty and reasonable cost of living.

#6: Texas

Texas is one of the top states for young adults to move to, thanks to its low cost of living, no state income tax, and booming job market. Whether you’re drawn to the tech scene in Austin, the arts and culture of Houston, or the business opportunities in Dallas, the Lone Star State offers something for everyone.

• Cost of Living: 7.3% lower than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $63,448
• Population Growth Rate: +1.8%
• Median House Price: $339,500
• Job Opening Rate: 3.8%
• Most Popular Cities: Austin, Dallas, and Houston

Texas is known for its independent spirit and friendly people. It’s also one of the few states with no income tax, meaning your paycheck can go further. Young professionals are especially drawn to Austin, a city that blends startup energy with live music and a thriving food scene.

Of course, summers can be brutally hot, and urban sprawl can make transportation a challenge in some cities. But for affordability, opportunity, and a strong job market, Texas easily earns its spot on this list.

#7: North Carolina

North Carolina is a top place to live in the U.S. for young adults thanks to its combination of vibrant cities, solid job prospects, and good weather. It also offers an attractive mix of mountains, beaches, and urban centers with plenty of things to do. 

• Cost of Living: 2.2% lower than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $63,611
• Population Growth Rate: +1.49%
• Median House Price: $380,300
• Job Opening Rate: 4.8%
• Most Popular Cities: Raleigh, Charlotte, and Durham

Raleigh-Durham is a hub for innovation and education, while Charlotte offers a growing financial sector and a bustling downtown. The cost of living is relatively low, and salaries are competitive, particularly in the Research Triangle region.

Some rural areas may offer fewer amenities or slower job growth, but for most young adults, North Carolina hits a sweet spot of livability, affordability, and opportunity.

#8: Utah

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, a strong economy, and a fast-growing job market, Utah is hard to beat. Known for its national parks and friendly communities, Utah is attracting more young adults every year.

• Cost of Living: 4.9% higher than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $82,581
• Population Growth Rate: +1.72%
• Median House Price: $588,500
• Job Opening Rate: 4.1%
• Most Popular Cities: Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden

Utah’s economy is thriving, especially in tech, finance, and healthcare. Salt Lake City is quickly becoming a major player in the startup world, while Provo is known for its entrepreneurial spirit. The state’s youthful culture and high quality of life make it especially appealing for those in their 20s and early 30s.

The higher elevation may not be for everyone, but overall, Utah is a dynamic and fast-growing option for young professionals.

#9: Tennessee

Tennessee combines affordability, music, and opportunity in one of the most livable states for young adults. With no state income tax and a growing economy, cities like Nashville and Chattanooga are becoming hotspots for recent grads and early-career professionals.

• Cost of Living: 9.5% lower than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $61,951
• Population Growth Rate: +1.1%
• Median House Price: $389,100
• Job Opening Rate: 4.7%
• Most Popular Cities: Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville

Nashville is a top destination for those in the arts, music, or tech industries, while other cities like Knoxville and Memphis offer vibrant culture and lower housing costs. Tennessee’s mild climate and strong community vibe also appeal to many young movers.

It’s worth noting that wages can be lower than in some coastal states, but the lack of state income tax and low cost of living help offset that. All in all, Tennessee is a solid choice for young adults looking to grow.

Is Tennessee right for you? Learn more about living in Chattanooga, a popular city for young adults. 

#10: Minnesota

Minnesota is one of the most underrated places for young adults to live in the U.S. With excellent healthcare, public amenities, and career opportunities, especially in tech and biotech, it’s a hidden gem with major upside for early-career professionals.

• Cost of Living: 4.9% lower than U.S. average
• Median Income (1 earner): $74,083
• Population Growth Rate: +0.69%
• Median House Price: $370,900
• Job Opening Rate: 5.8%
• Most Popular Cities: Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester

Minneapolis-St. Paul has a vibrant arts and food scene, plus a strong public transportation system and tons of green space. Minnesota’s commitment to quality of life, through parks, education, and healthcare, is a major draw.

Winters can be harsh, and housing prices are slightly above average, but the job prospects, wages, and community support systems make Minnesota a standout pick for career-minded young adults.

Ready to choose from the best states for young adults?

Now that you’ve explored our comprehensive guide to the 10 best states for young adults to live in 2025, it’s time to start narrowing down your options. Whether you’re chasing career growth, outdoor adventure, vibrant culture, or affordable living, there’s a state on this list that fits your lifestyle.

Consider Columbus, Georgia as the next place to call home 

Looking for a place with a strong job market, mild weather, and year-round recreation? Georgia continues to stand out as one of the best places for young professionals.

In Columbus, Georgia, especially, you can access the perks of a larger city (like career opportunities), while enjoying all the warmth and affordability of a smaller town. With a cost of living lower than the national average and a vibrant arts and culture scene, Columbus is a great place for young adults.

Whichever path you choose, these states represent the top places to live in the U.S. for young adults in 2025. Use this guide as your starting point and start planning your next move with confidence.If you’re ready to learn more about living in Columbus, contact us here. Our team is here to help!