The Best Cities for Generation Z

Abstract

Hey, Gen Z: Maybe it's time to move out? A recent study by CommercialCafe, a real estate listing service owned by the data firm Yardi Matrix, offers some help in finding the cities best suited for 18- to 25-year-olds. Each of the largest 45 U.S. cities was scored on characteristics important to them: affordability, Gen Z population share, unemployment rate, internet speed, recreational and dining establishments, green commuting options, number of parks and school enrollment. Scores for all metrics were totaled to rank each city. Atlanta finished first overall, with its large Gen Z population and many parks helping to offset its somewhat pricier housing. Second was Minneapolis, which scored well for its large Gen Z population and low unemployment rate. If you want the company of people your own age, get out of grandma's basement and head to Tucson, Ariz., where Gen Zers make up over 11 percent of the population, the largest share of all the cities studied. Better Than Your Childhood Bedroom A recent study found the cities best suited for Gen Z, based on affordability, recreational opportunities, unemployment rate, green commuting options, Gen Z population and other metrics.