Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers are in high demand, with job growth projected at 10.4% from 2023 to 2033, far outpacing the forecast growth of other fields (3.6%), according to recent US Bureau of Labor Statistics analysis.
STEM jobs also offer significantly higher median annual wages ($101,650 vs. $46,680 for non-STEM roles). WalletHub has released its analysis of 100 US metro areas to identify the best markets for STEM professionals, focusing on factors like job availability, wages, education quality, and quality of life.
Top 10 Cities
1. Austin, Texas
2. Boston, Massachusetts
3. Seattle, Washington
4. Atlanta, Georgia
5. San Francisco, California
6. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
7. Madison, Wisconsin
8. San Jose, California
9. Springfield, Massachusetts
10. Orlando, Florida
According to WalletHub’s analysis, Austin receives top honors as STEM jobs make up 11.5% of the city’s employment, with high median wages ($107,000). Austin also excels in STEM education and is dubbed "the next Silicon Valley."
Boston came in second as it’s known for its STEM innovation with the city leading in R&D spending (8% of GDP) and its high level of patent activity. STEM jobs constitute 11% of employment, with strong academic foundations.
Seattle rounds out the top three where STEM jobs account for 13% of employment, with top wages ($12,027/month). Seattle ranks highly in R&D intensity (7.5% of GDP) and its strong performance in patent production.
10 Lowest-Ranking Cities
1. McAllen, Texas
2. Oxnard, California
3. Greensboro, North Carolina
4. Winston, North Carolina
5. North Port, Florida
6. Cape Coral, Florida
7. Louisville, Kentucky
8. Memphis, Tennessee
9. Little Rock, Arkansas
10. Jackson, Mississippi