College Grads Flocking To Urban America

In a trend that would make Richard Florida proud, well-educated college graduates are flocking to big cities in increasing numbers, drawn by good jobs, cultural amenities and an "urban" lifestyle.

1 minute read

April 15, 2006, 11:00 AM PDT

By David Gest


An analysis by the Associated Press has added to the growing cadre of studies reporting that urban America is increasingly the destination-of-choice for footloose, well-educated young Americans. Despite an overall loss of population in many urban centers, these same cities are nevertheless being bolstered by an influx of young "creatives" and other newly minted college grads.

According to AP, "Seattle, Washington, was the best-educated city in 2004 with just over half the adults having bachelor's degrees. Following closely were San Francisco; Raleigh, North Carolina; Washington, D.C. and Austin, Texas."

Unfortunately, for certain gritty post-industrial cities in the Northeast and Midwest further down on the "Creative Class" food chain, the rising tide of population loss and workforce depletion continues.

Thanks to Alex Pearlstein

Tuesday, April 11, 2006 in Associated Press via CNN.com

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog