Why Mid-Sized Cities Are Becoming Hot Spots for College Graduates and What Student-Athletes Should Know
As more and more college students prepare to transition into the workforce, new data reveals a surprising trend: big cities like New York and Los Angeles aren’t necessarily the best places to land a job anymore. Instead, up-and-coming cities like Raleigh, North Carolina, Birmingham, Alabama, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Austin, Texas, are emerging as key destinations for Gen Z job seekers—and that includes student-athletes who are making their mark in the workforce.
A recent study by ADP analyzed payroll data from over 140,000 employees aged 20-29, focusing on factors like annual wages, hiring rates, and affordability across 55 metro areas. The results are clear: these mid-sized cities are offering the right combination of competitive job markets and decent salaries, which makes them especially appealing for college graduates, including student-athletes who may not want to jump into big cities immediately after graduation.
Why Mid-Sized Cities Are the New Hot Spots
These cities are increasingly becoming home to tech, healthcare, and financial firms, industries that are especially appealing to those looking for stable career opportunities. These sectors offer strong job prospects for student-athletes who are transitioning from sports to professional careers, especially those who have developed skills in leadership, teamwork, and time management throughout their athletic careers.
For student-athletes, the ability to balance academics, sports, and eventually transitioning into the workforce is no easy feat. But the job market in these cities is more accommodating and welcoming, allowing them to ease into their professional lives without the overwhelming costs of living and competition found in larger cities. For example, Raleigh, North Carolina, was ranked as the best city for college graduates looking for opportunities. The combination of a low cost of living, a strong tech scene, and a growing economy make it an ideal place for recent grads to launch their careers.
Leveraging AI in Your Job Search
Another trend that student-athletes should be aware of is the rise of AI in the job market. As AI becomes a key tool in both everyday work and job searching, Gen Z is already leading the way in adapting to this new landscape. AI is reshaping entry-level jobs by automating repetitive tasks and streamlining workflows. As student-athletes, many of whom are familiar with high-level training and adapting to new challenges, the ability to use AI tools will be a huge advantage when looking for jobs after graduation.
Whether it’s using AI to automate part of your job search or enhance your resume, understanding how to use AI to your advantage will be crucial. As the job market evolves, being able to demonstrate tech-savviness could help you stand out, especially in mid-sized cities where many of these tools are being integrated into day-to-day business operations.
Be Realistic About Your Skills and Build Confidence
One challenge that some Gen Zers face when job hunting is the temptation to exaggerate or even lie about their skills and experiences. Career platform career.io reports that nearly 50% of Gen Z admits to bending the truth on their resumes. While it might seem like a quick way to catch an employer’s eye, this approach is risky and can ultimately hurt your credibility. As a student-athlete, your unique experiences—team leadership, perseverance, and time management—are already valuable assets, so it’s important to highlight these strengths truthfully and confidently when applying for jobs.
Employers are looking for real, authentic talent that fits with the company’s culture. Instead of relying on inflated experiences, student-athletes should focus on building a solid portfolio, showcasing their accomplishments, and positioning themselves as hardworking, disciplined individuals who bring more than just athletic achievements to the table.
The Importance of Location and Affordability
When planning your next career move, it’s essential to consider where you’ll be most successful both professionally and personally. Moving to a big city might seem tempting, but the cost of living and the level of competition can be daunting for many recent grads. For student-athletes, mid-sized cities can offer the perfect balance of job opportunities and affordable living, allowing you to focus on building your career without the stress of high rents and cost-of-living expenses.
Cities like Austin and Raleigh have been growing rapidly in recent years, attracting top-tier employers and industries that value talent, including that of student-athletes transitioning into the professional world. Additionally, these cities provide a vibrant atmosphere and are home to a strong sense of community—something that can help ease the transition from college athletics to a new career.
Final Thoughts
As the job market shifts and mid-sized cities become more attractive to recent college graduates, including student-athletes, it’s important to stay informed and adapt to new trends. Leveraging AI in your job search, being transparent about your experiences, and understanding the job market in up-and-coming cities will set you up for success in your post-athletic career.
With hard work, strategic thinking, and a bit of tech-savviness, the future looks bright for student-athletes seeking a fulfilling career in the ever-changing job landscape.