top jobs and growing markets in major U.S. cities
You’ve just started a job search but you’re not sure which industry might suit your skills and personality. Or perhaps you’re planning a move to a new city, and are wondering what the top jobs are there. Wherever you are in your career journey, you’ve probably got more questions than answers at the moment.
That’s where Randstad’s city guides come in. Combining up-to-date data from trusted sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics with our own wealth of industry expertise, we’ve profiled the job markets in 25 major U.S. cities, answering questions like:
- What are the leading industries and growing markets?
- Which cities have the highest-paying jobs?
- Are there work-from-home jobs and jobs hiring immediately?
- What are the expected salary ranges for top jobs in that city?
The result? Our exclusive series of in-depth reports detailing the 12 top jobs in each city right now, to help you on your job search.
latest job market trends
To get a full picture of today’s employment scene, let’s take a look at top job market trends across the U.S. and what they mean for you.
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work-life balance is a top priority
The latest Randstad research shows employees in North America prioritize work-life balance above all other factors, and the large majority (84 percent) of us believe we already do have a good balance between our work and personal lives. The good news? Employers are increasingly aware of this must-have too, and are not only offering hybrid or fully remote work opportunities, but are also beginning to implement policies and practices focused on improving the lives of their employees.
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the competition for the best talent is fierce
One in five (21 percent) North Americans changed employers in the last half of 2022. One of the main reasons cited for this trend is the need for better compensation to keep up with the rising cost of living. The best employers know that competitive pay and benefits — including training and career progression — are the best way to attract and retain talent, so look out for those high-paying jobs.
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the focus is shifting from credentials and experience to skills
As companies implement diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEI&A) policies, they’re starting to assess candidates based on whether they have the skills for a role, rather than their formal qualifications or previous experience. While a university degree is still necessary for some specialist roles, this means if you’re a job seeker from a non-traditional background, there could be many more opportunities out there for you than you realize.
city overviews
Whether you’ve recently left high school, just graduated from college or are well established on your career path, your next role is waiting for you. Browse our city guides here:
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atlanta, georgia
Home to more than 5 million people and some 150,000 businesses, this major Southeast city offers opportunities in healthcare, logistics, IT and finance.
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austin, texas
The capital of the Lone Star State leads in advanced manufacturing and IT, with a growing range of roles in life sciences and space tech.
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bakersfield, california
A diverse economic landscape means that Kern County’s largest city offers a wealth of careers in vital sectors like manufacturing, oil and agriculture, from engineers to warehouse jobs and remote roles.
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baltimore, maryland
Known for its top-notch higher education community, Charm City excels in healthcare, tech and cybersecurity. Many companies are also hiring for office roles and warehousing jobs.
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bradenton, florida
This Gulf Coast gem offers diverse opportunities in manufacturing and logistics, including jobs hiring immediately, plus roles in healthcare, education and hospitality.
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charlotte, north carolina
Fast paced and fast growing, North Carolina’s largest city is a leader in logistics and professional services. Healthcare and manufacturing also provide exciting opportunities.
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chicago, illinois
This thriving metropolis is already a leader in finance and manufacturing, and its life sciences and fintech markets are expanding rapidly.
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dallas, texas
With an established track record in energy, defense and manufacturing, plus a growing number of tech and finance roles, this city of 1.3 million has plenty to offer.
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fort worth, texas
One of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, Fort Worth has exciting career opportunities in energy, tech, life sciences and professional services.
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houston, texas
In addition to diverse careers in the energy and aerospace sectors, this dynamic city has plenty of roles in healthcare, advanced manufacturing and tech innovation.
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jacksonville, florida
Find sun, sand and a world of opportunity on Florida’s north shore, with top jobs in sales, manufacturing and professional services.
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lakeland, florida
This logistics and distribution powerhouse offers sought-after careers in manufacturing and tech, plus remote jobs in customer service and office administration.
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las vegas, nevada
Skilled workers are in demand here in sectors like manufacturing, logistics and warehousing, while a burgeoning tech scene has created opportunities in diverse roles, from aerospace engineering to software development.
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los angeles, california
While media roles are some of the most sought after here, the City of Angels also offers a host of top jobs in aviation, healthcare and IT.
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louisville, kentucky
The state’s largest city by population, Louisville attracts job seekers to roles in manufacturing and tourism. Growing industries to watch include life sciences and tech.
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memphis, tennessee
There’s no need to sing the blues about this West Tennessee city, where roles in manufacturing, logistics and healthcare are in high demand.
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miami, florida
Proximity to Latin America means this city has an abundance of opportunities in its booming tourism sector, plus a huge range of roles in logistics, finance and IT.
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new york, new york
With top employment opportunities in everything from education and health to business services and finance, there’s plenty here to put you in a New York state of mind.
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orlando, florida
While tourism reigns supreme in this Sunshine State city, Orlando also offers a wealth of career prospects in healthcare, finance and aerospace.
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philadelphia, pennsylvania
The East Coast’s second-largest city is hiring for roles right now in some of the most exciting growing markets, including robotics, biopharma and financial services.
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phoenix, arizona
With a metro area population of over 5 million and a booming jobs market, this Southwestern city is a top choice for careers in aerospace, financial services and cybersecurity.
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sacramento, california
As the fastest-growing major city in California, Sacramento is home to a hot job market for construction, pharmacy and retail sales.
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san antonio, texas
In addition to its strong manufacturing and healthcare credentials, this future-forward city is making strides in growing markets like aerospace, tech and cybersecurity.
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tallahassee, florida
Employment opportunities in this dynamic city are booming, with plenty of high-paying jobs and remote roles in business services, education and healthcare.
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tampa, florida
Relaxed yet cosmopolitan, this waterfront city has some of the best jobs hiring immediately in finance, IT and manufacturing.
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