Next Generation Consulting (NGC) has recently published a ranking of North American cities including the 80 best cities for young professionals in the United States and Canada.
"What is a Next CityTM?
Next CitiesTM are places with the assets and amenities that attract and retain a young, educated work force. They have bustling city centers, walkable neighborhoods, diverse career opportunities, and vibrant art and music scenes..."
The article discusses the criteria that younger generations use for desirability of a city and the implications for employers and site selection professionals.
The ranking is based on the following measurable categories:
Cost of Lifestyle - affordability
Earning - diversity of employment, % of knowledge-based jobs & average H/H income
Vitality - a measure of "healthy living" - pollution, air/water quality, life expectancy
After Hours - places & things to do after hours and on weekends
Learning - educational opportunities & attainment, accessibility to wi-fi Internet
Around Town - ease of commuting, transportability
Social Capital - openness, safety and accessibility to people of all races, creeds and beliefs.
It doesn't surprise me that Charleston ranked high - we've got a great lifestyle here!