Finding the right job can depend greatly on location, as recent analysis by SmartAsset highlighted the best job markets across the U.S. This study evaluated 348 cities based on six key indicators: unemployment rate, income growth, employer-sponsored health insurance coverage, typical commute times, the percentage of remote workers, and median housing costs relative to income. According to SmartAsset, Bend, Oregon, ranks as the top city for job markets in the United States. Its impressive low unemployment rate of 3.1% and significant income growth—44% between 2020 and 2023—set it apart.
This growth rate is only surpassed by Richmond, Virginia, Nampa, Idaho, and Dayton, Ohio. Additionally, Bend’s appeal includes outdoor recreational opportunities and an average commute of just 16 minutes, with more than a quarter of its population working remotely. Following Bend, the second and third best job markets are Richmond, Virginia, and Seattle, Washington, respectively. For individuals prioritizing health care coverage, Santa Clara, California, offers the highest percentage, with over 88% of residents having employer-sponsored private health insurance.
Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Bellevue, Washington, are also notable, each with approximately 87% coverage. Commute times are another crucial factor for work-life balance. In this regard, Wichita Falls, Texas, leads with a median commute of roughly 14 minutes, making it one of the shortest in the nation. Abilene, Texas, and Topeka, Kansas, follow closely with average commute times of 14 and 15 minutes, respectively.
Lastly, for those looking for remote work opportunities, Frisco, Texas, has the highest percentage of remote workers at over 32%. Berkeley, California, and Charlotte, North Carolina, are not far behind, with 29% and 28% of their workforce working from home.