These Are the Best U.S. Cities for Young Adults to Move in 2026 Based on Jobs, Rent, and Social Life

"The company recently conducted a study looking at 30 major U.S. urban areas where "young people can afford basic expenses while still having an active social life." JB pulled in data on the job markets, monthly salaries, dating opportunities (percentage of single residents), entertainment (restaurants and bars), and overall livability (safety, walkability, and commute times). Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, came out on top, having the lowest housing costs."

"Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, came out on top, having the lowest housing costs. According to a press release shared with Travel + Leisure, monthly rent in the Steel City mostly stays below $1,000 while employees typically bring in a little over $4,000 each month. The study also cited Pittsburgh's dating scene, where two-thirds of residents are reportedly single, and the median age is 34. The city also has an impressive number of restaurants and coffee shops, with 343 eateries per 10 square miles."

"Washington, D.C. is the third-best city for young adults. "Finding a job here isn't hard, as local businesses post more than 1,500 entry-level openings per 10,000 people. Beyond work, young people here can enjoy social life, with almost 450 restaurants and cafes found across every district," reads the press release. Salaries in the capital city also tend to be high: JB reports $6,112 per month."

An entertainment platform JB evaluated 30 major U.S. urban areas for where Gen Z can afford basic expenses while maintaining an active social life. The study used data on job markets, monthly salaries, percentage of single residents, restaurants and bars, safety, walkability, and commute times. Pittsburgh ranked first due to low housing costs, monthly rents mostly below $1,000, typical monthly incomes around $4,000, a young dating scene, and high restaurant density. Boston ranked second for walkability and high wages. Washington, D.C. ranked third with abundant entry-level job postings, high restaurant density, and strong salaries. Milwaukee and Atlanta completed the top five.

Read at Travel + Leisure