Nashville is one of the best cities for young professionals

Young professionals are an important part of Nashville’s economic growth. These professionals under the age of 40 are starting businesses, moving up the corporate ladder and making Nashville a great place to live.

But why does Nashville have such a robust young professional population? In their recent ranking, SmartAsset named Nashville in the top 20 cities for young professionals based on several criteria including:

  • Percentage of the population between the ages of 25 and 34;
  • The unemployment rate for those residents;
  • Median rent;
  • Median earnings for full-time workers;
  • Change in median earnings over five years;
  • Job diversity;
  • Labor force participation for residents between the ages of 25 and 34;
  • Rent as a percentage of income; and
  • Entertainment establishment rate.

While Nashville cracked the top 10 in the ranking for 2017, we are excited to have remained in the top 20 for 2018.

However, there are other aspects that make Nashville a hub for young professionals that can’t be distilled in the data.

First are the region’s many institutions of higher education. Middle Tennessee State University, Austin Peay State University, Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, Lipscomb University, Fisk University, Trevecca Nazarene University and other colleges and universities mean our region is filled with talented young people that often choose to stick around after graduation.

Furthermore, organizations across the region have come together to encourage young professionals to get involved in the community through YP Nashville. YP Nashville helps young professionals connect with organizations that need help from engaged community members. Helping YPs get connected to a cause they care about in the community helps keep them in the region rather than moving to another city or state.

Nashville is also just a great place to live. U.S. News named Nashville #11 on the list of best places to live in 2018. Being named the #1 drinking city by Thrillist also shows the vibrant nightlife that makes Nashville a destination for tourists and fun-seeking new residents.

Young professionals can expect to find plenty of jobs, culture and connection in the Nashville area. To get connected, check out the YP Nashville website for upcoming events and opportunities.

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