Top 5 Job Markets in 2022

The five most popular employment markets in the United States are all located in different states, yet they have several things in common. They are located in midsize cities with a population below 2.3 million people. They are situated in states with decent income taxes or no income taxes at all. And their climates allow for year-round outdoor activities.

They are: Austin, Texas; Nashville, Tenn.; Raleigh, N.C.; Salt Lake City; and Jacksonville, Fla.

Each of these markets has something different to offer, but they are all great places to find a job.

1. Austin

Known for its live music scene and its large student population. The city is also home to a number of high-tech companies, making it a great place for people in the tech industry.

Nashville

The country music capital of the world and is also a hub for the healthcare industry. The city has a low cost of living and a lively downtown area.

Raleigh

Part of the Research Triangle, which is home to three major research universities. The city also has a thriving tech industry and a low cost of living.

Salt Lake City

A great place for outdoor enthusiasts. The city has numerous hiking and biking trails, and it is also home to the world-famous ski resort, Park City.

Jacksonville

A popular retirement destination, but it is also a great place to find a job. The city has a growing economy and a low cost of living.

The Wall Street Journal, working with Moody's Analytics, conducted a study of 300 metros to determine the areas with the strongest employment prospects. The five factors assessed were the unemployment rate, labor-force participation rate, job creation, labor-force expansion, and wage growth in 2021. To determine the best labor market in the United States, an average of those rankings was used. Larger places with more than one million residents were ranked separately from tiny ones. The top five cities are all close to universities, state capitols, or high-tech businesses. Florida, Texas, and Tennessee have no personal income tax, while North Carolina and Utah have income and corporate tax rates of around 5%.

Here are the top jobs that are highest in demand in Austin, Texas:

  • Registered Nurses
  • Computer Systems Analysts
  • Software Developers
  • Market Research Analysts
  • Management Analysts

In Nashville, Tennessee, the following jobs are in high demand:

  • Registered Nurses
  • Medical Assistants
  • Office Clerks
  • Sales Representatives
  • Customer Service Representatives