The 10 Best Cities for New Grads in 2025

For new college grads, the search for that first post-diploma apartment isn’t just about rent; it’s about launching a career, building a social life, and getting a return on that hard-earned degree.

And according to new research from Realtor.com®, some cities are checking all the boxes—offering affordable rents, abundant job openings for degree holders, and lively neighborhoods that don’t require a trust fund to enjoy.

The data ranks the top 10 U.S. rental markets for college graduates in 2025, based on rent-to-income ratios, job availability, vacancy rates, commute times, and more.

Whether you’re tracking migration patterns or just looking to better understand what drives the next generation of renters, this list is packed with insight.

The Top 10 Cities for College Grads in 2025 

These cities earned their spot by giving recent grads more for their money, without compromising on lifestyle, job growth, or opportunity. 

Here’s what makes each market shine:

#1: Austin, TX

With the lowest rent-to-income ratio on the list (18.9%) and a booming tech job scene (29.4% of jobs are degree-friendly), Austin takes the top spot. Add in an 8.2% vacancy rate and a 25-minute average commute, and you’ve got an ideal launchpad for young professionals.

#2: Raleigh, NC

Boasting the highest percentage of jobs for college grads (30.4%) and a 20% rent-to-income ratio, Raleigh blends affordability with opportunity. A high vacancy rate (9%) means grads have leverage, too.

#3: Overland Park, KS

With the shortest average commute (22 minutes) and a 9.2% vacancy rate, this Kansas City suburb offers both convenience and choice. A 20.6% rent-to-income ratio keeps it affordable, while 25.5% of jobs are a fit for recent grads.

#4: Minneapolis, MN

The lowest vacancy rate on the list (5.2%) hasn’t stopped grads from moving here — in fact, Minneapolis has the highest share of recent college grads (6.3%) and the second-lowest rent-to-income ratio (19.7%).

#5: St. Louis, MO

With a strong job market for grads (25.1%) and rents consuming just 20.8% of income, St. Louis provides both career potential and affordability, along with a respectable location score of 4.3 out of 10.

#6: Richmond, VA

Career growth potential is sky-high here; Richmond’s Indeed Hiring Index is 126, showing job openings are 26% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Rent-to-income is higher (23.2%), but short commutes (23 minutes) and a low unemployment rate (3.3%) make it a strong contender.

#7: Pittsburgh, PA

Known for its university ecosystem and tech-adjacent opportunities, Pittsburgh offers a 22.3% rent-to-income ratio, an 8.7% vacancy rate, and the second-highest share of recent grads (5.7%).

#8: Scottsdale, AZ

With a matching job growth score to Richmond (126) and one of the lowest unemployment rates (3.7%), Scottsdale has become a magnet for ambitious young pros. Rent is slightly higher (22.5%), but commute times are short and location scores are solid.

#9: Richardson, TX

A new entrant to the list, Richardson combines growing career opportunities (24.4% grad-friendly jobs) with an 8.9% vacancy rate and a 22.4% rent-to-income ratio. It’s a city on the rise—and grads are noticing.

#10: Atlanta, GA

Atlanta rounds out the list with a high vacancy rate (9.3%), strong job market (24.7%), and a hiring index of 124. While the rent-to-income ratio is higher (24.1%) and the commute longer (29 minutes), the city’s energy, culture, and opportunity remain a strong draw.

Trends Worth Watching: What This Means for Agents

Realtor.com’s research shows a clear pattern: affordability still matters, but grads are also prioritizing job access, lifestyle, and social connection. 

In other words, it’s not just about short-term savings. 

The best markets for this year’s college graduates aren’t just (relatively) cheap; they’re dynamic, with strong employment sectors, short commutes, and plenty of peers to network with.

Key Takeaways for Real Estate Professionals:

• The renter market isn’t drying up; it’s shifting. Pay attention to where recent grads are heading and why.
• Affordability still leads, but opportunity drives demand. Cities with high shares of degree-friendly jobs (like Raleigh and Austin) are magnets for young talent.
• New development matters. High vacancy rates and new construction in cities like Overland Park and Atlanta mean more choices and leverage for renters — and a signal to watch for agents.
• Data = content. Use insights like these in your local marketing to educate clients and position yourself as the expert who sees where the market is going, not just where it’s been.

Where grads go, growth follows. And the agents who pay attention now will be the ones getting the calls later.