8 Best Places for Young Adults to Live in the U.S.

Real estate experts weigh in on the top cities for recent grads and young professionals.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 7:15am

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After speaking with real estate experts and conducting research, Travel + Leisure has identified eight of the best cities in the U.S. for young adults aged 18-34. The list includes Atlanta, Washington D.C., Raleigh, Denver, Pittsburgh, Columbus, Austin, and Boston - all of which offer a mix of job opportunities, affordability, and vibrant social scenes.

Why it matters

As young professionals seek to establish their careers and independence, the priorities of this age group often differ from other demographics. Factors like access to jobs, reasonable housing costs, walkable communities, and the ability to build financial stability are key considerations when deciding where to live.

The details

The cities highlighted provide compelling options for recent graduates and young adults. Atlanta stands out for its diverse job sectors, cultural diversity, and range of housing. Washington D.C. offers career opportunities in government, education, and nonprofits, as well as accessible public transit. Raleigh blends career momentum with an active lifestyle, while Denver's outdoor recreation, arts, and sports make it an attractive destination. Pittsburgh, Columbus, Austin, and Boston also made the list for their job markets, affordability, and amenities catered to younger residents.

  • The U.S. Census Bureau defines young adults as those aged 18-34.
  • The 2025 Metro Atlanta Speaks Survey found housing affordability is a top concern in the Atlanta area.

The players

Danielle Andrews

A realtor with Realty One Group Next Generation who provided insights on what young adults value when choosing a city to live in.

Rob Warnock

The lead economic researcher at Apartment List who focused on demographics, employment trends, and housing affordability when recommending locations for young adults.

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What they’re saying

“When I think about the best cities for young adults, I start with what recent high school and college grads actually value: access to jobs, reasonable housing costs, walkable or active social scenes, and the ability to build independence without being financially stretched from day one.”

— Danielle Andrews, Realtor

“While Denver does have higher rents and lower ownership than other cities in the U.S., it makes up for it in overall economic performance with higher college graduation rates (55 percent), higher median income for young adults ($56,250), and, in general, a higher share of the general population that are young adults (19 percent).”

— Rob Warnock, Lead Economic Researcher

The takeaway

These eight cities offer a range of opportunities for young adults seeking to establish their careers and lifestyles. By considering factors like job prospects, affordability, and quality of life, recent graduates and young professionals can find the right fit to build their futures.