Raleigh has been ranked as the fifth best city in the United States for Generation Z, according to CommercialCafe’s 2025 report on the Best Places to Live for Gen Z. The study evaluated major U.S. cities based on factors such as affordability, job opportunities for recent graduates, education access, entertainment options, and lifestyle amenities.
The report highlighted Raleigh’s strong balance between affordability and opportunity. The city offers a high percentage of jobs suitable for recent graduates, with 30.3% of available positions fitting this category. Additionally, young adults aged 20 to 24 make up 8.8% of Raleigh’s population, which demonstrates its attractiveness to early-career professionals and students.
Raleigh’s proximity to major universities and Research Triangle Park was noted as a factor that supports innovation and entrepreneurship in the area. The city also provides green spaces, cultural attractions, and accessible amenities that contribute to its quality of life.
“Raleigh stood out for its balance of affordability and opportunity, offering one of the highest shares of jobs suitable for recent graduates at 30.3%. The city’s growing population of young adults – 8.8% of residents are between the ages of 20 and 24 – reflects its appeal to early-career professionals and students alike. Proximity to major universities and Research Triangle Park fuels innovation and entrepreneurship, while ample green space, cultural attractions, and accessible amenities contribute to a vibrant quality of life,” according to the report.
More details about the ranking can be found at CommercialCafe’s website: https://www.commercialcafe.com/blog/best-cities-for-gen-z-2025/.
