Millennials are one of the largest generations in history, and they are currently dominating several major industries.

They are getting ready to start families and quickly becoming the mass population in the business and real estate industries.

Since Millennials are starting to become stable and ready to take on the responsibility of living on their own, which cities are they most drawn to?

Where are they going?

According to CubeSmart, Millennials are interested in cities where they will get the most out of their life.

Factors included affordability, job growth, diversity, outdoor activities, and the overall atmosphere of the area.

Some Millennials crave the non-stop action of a fast-paced city or enjoy the easy living life in the suburbs. If you are one of them, we recommend this awesome guide on investing for Millennials.

Whether Millennials are looking to stay out until the early morning, run along the coast, or enjoy some quiet alone time, here are the best 15 cities for Millennials to live in 2020

Disclaimer: there is no order for this list.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago

Chicago, known as the Windy City, has won over thousands of millennials as one of the best cities to live in. Not only does this extremely pedestrian-friendly city offer countless outdoor activities, but there are also always new adventures right around the corner. Chicago has a variety of places to wine and dine, and the average cost of rent is about average for a metropolis city. Chicago is a very accessible and diverse place, which explains why it is a top choice for Millennials. (Thinking of moving without any money, read this).

Report card:

Population: 2,714,017

Average rent: $1900

Accessibility: A+

Nightlife: A+

Diversity: A+

Austin, Texas

Many millennials love Austin because of its thriving music scene. Not only is Austin a great place to listen to live music, but it also has some of the best authentic BBQ and tacos. This city has great weather all year round and is very outdoor-friendly, which makes it extremely easy for Millennials to stay active and healthy. Lastly, Austin’s overall atmosphere is very laid back, making it effortless for millennials to adapt to the western lifestyle.

Report card:

Population: 988,218

Average rent: $1,435

Accessibility: A-

Nightlife: A

Diversity: A+

Miami, Florida

florida first time home buyer

When you think of Miami, the first three things that probably come to mind are the beautiful beaches, amazing cuisine, and active nightlife. Miami offers countless waterfront activities, from boating to restaurant/bar hopping, and shopping; it’s no surprise Millennials are migrating here. Rent can be expensive depending on where you live, but Miami makes up for it with gorgeous views and a variety of ways to soak up the sun.

Report card:

Population: 470,914

Average rent: $1,700

Accessibility: A-

Nightlife: A+

Diversity: A-

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis

If you don’t mind the cold weather and relentless Vikings fans, Minneapolis is the place for you. This city offers it all, from its diverse vibe to its variety of restaurants, and of course, to their unforgettable 10,000 lakes, millennials are heading towards Minneapolis, and fast. The job market is another reason Millennials are favoring this city; big industries such as health care and technology are rapidly growing and show no signs of slowing down. Feel free to check out this Minnesota homebuyers guide.

Report card:

Population: 425,403

Average rent: $1500

Accessibility: A

Nightlife: A+

Diversity: A

Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas

Kansas City, or KC, is slowly but surely getting on Millennials’ radar for cities to live in 2020. This city is stepping up with one of the best NFL teams in the league, the Kansas City Chiefs, who won the Super Bowl in 2020. There are many green spaces and everywhere you look KC shows off its rich history and beautiful architecture. The job growth in Kansas City is also steady and thriving, which is no surprise why Millennials are moving to this city.

Report card:

Population: 491,918

Average rent: $1,010

Accessibility: A-

Nightlife: A-

Diversity: A

Denver, Colorado

Denver is one of the greenest and active cities in the United States. People can easily walk around the city, so no need to worry about getting to the best restaurants and breweries in town. Not to mention, the countless number of outdoor activities Denver offers, including hiking, skiing, and biking gorgeous mountains. Millennials will never find themselves bored in Denver.

Report card:

Population: 625,000

Average rent: $1,600

Accessibility: A

Nightlife: A+

Diversity: A+

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville

You don’t need to love the country to enjoy this Nashville. This city is quickly winning over millennials’ hearts with its diverse atmosphere and variety of culinary options. It’s no surprise why Millennials are moving here, they can easily find their niche. Nashville is also slowly dominating the job industry with steady job growth. In this fast-paced city, you will never leave hungry or without square dancing, it’s just the southern way.

Report card:

Population: 673,167

Average rent: $1,400

Accessibility: B+

Nightlife: A+

Diversity: A

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh

Watch out, because Pittsburgh is making a comeback as one of the upcoming cities for Millennials to live. As one of the highest-ranked cities for accessibility and affordability, Millennials are making the move to the east. Luckily, there is no problem finding a good beer or cocktail, because Pittsburgh has the 4th highest density bar in the nation. Lastly, the job opportunity and growth are incomparable to other cities, making it a no brainer Pittsburgh is the place to be.

Report card:

Population: 295,000

Average rent: $1,250

Accessibility: A

Nightlife: A+

Diversity: A

Columbus, Ohio

Columbus

Columbus is also an upcoming city for millennials because of its steady job growth, extreme affordability, and diversity. Although it’s one of the “bigger small cities,” it has everything millennials are looking for — family-friendly parks, cultural museums, and delicious dining options. If you are feeling inspired and have a million-dollar idea, Columbus is ranked as one of the best cities to start a business from the ground up. Columbus gives people the big city vibe without all the noise and chaos.

Report card:

Population: 922,223

Average rent: $1,000

Accessibility: A-

Nightlife: A

Diversity: A

Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis

Step aside, because Indianapolis is quickly becoming a top choice for Millennials to live in. Indianapolis has become one of the major hubs for great beer selections, brunch options, and of course, a variety of outdoor activities. Not to mention, Indianapolis is ranked as one of the best cities for job opportunities and affordability, which makes it an easy decision to move out to this midwestern state. Can’t forget about catching a lap or two at the Indy 500!

Report card:

Population: 876,862

Average rent: $950

Accessibility: B+

Nightlife: A-

Diversity: A

Sandy Springs, Georgia

Sandy_Springs

Although it’s currently a common trend for Millennials to land in big cities, Sandy Springs is quickly becoming a top choice. Just minutes away from Atlanta, Sandy Springs is a small city that offers the fast-paced rush of a big one. Sandy Springs has everything Millennials are looking for — accessibility, great weather, and a fun nightlife scene. Not to mention, this town is super pet-friendly, so Millennials can bring their furry friends out and about! (Check out this awesome guide for Atlanta Home Buyers)

Report card:

Population: 108,797

Average rent: $1,200

Accessibility: B+

Nightlife: A-

Diversity: A+

Davenport, Iowa

Davenport

As one of the most affordable cities in the United States, it’s no surprise millennials are gravitating towards Davenport. Consistently, this city has a proven track record for a low cost of living and a steady job market. Davenport is also super outdoor-friendly, which gives millennials the chance to stay active and healthy. Lastly, Davenport has many restaurants and breweries on the riverfront, making it easy to enjoy delicious food with a view.

Report card:

Population: 102,305

Average rent: $875

Accessibility: A-

Nightlife: A-

Diversity: A-

Provo, Utah

Provo

If you’re looking for affordability and the option to ski in your backyard, then Provo is the place for you. Provo offers affordable living options and has a growing job market. If that doesn’t convince you, maybe the gorgeous mountains and amazing views will. This college-feel town is near where the companies Adobe and eBay were born and has since inspired many other tech companies to plant their roots in Provo. It’s truly a hidden gem. On another note, if you are thinking about moving to Salt Lake City, make sure to check out this guide.

Report card:

Population: 116,702

Average rent: $1,400

Accessibility: A

Nightlife: B+

Diversity: B+

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Harrisburg

This work hard, play hard city is slowly getting on millennial radars for the best city to live in. It is extremely affordable and there are many entry-level opportunities, which makes it perfect for younger professionals to get their careers started. Harrisburg also has a variety of outdoor activities, which makes it easy for people to stay fit. Not to mention, Scranton is only a two-hour drive away, so if you need to get your Office fix in, it’s possible.

Report card:

Population: 49,160

Average rent: $1,000

Accessibility: A

Nightlife: A

Diversity: A+

Sioux Falls, South Dakota


In Sioux Falls, millennials are skipping the apartment life and heading straight towards homeownership because of its extreme affordability and low unemployment rate. If monetary value is a huge factor, then this city is the one for you. It is a very budget-friendly town while offering a variety of delicious restaurants, breweries, and outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. Lastly, Sioux Falls is a very pedestrian-friendly city and has a great cultural scene.

Report card:

Population: 190,519

Average rent: $825

Accessibility: A-

Nightlife: B+

Diversity: B+

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