The best places for recent college grads to move

Austin, Texas, has emerged as the top destination for recent college graduates looking to rent, according to a Realtor.com report by economist Jiayi Xu. The city offers a balance of affordable rent options, career opportunities, and lifestyle amenities. Despite rising costs for home buyers, rental prices in Austin have moderated, making it relatively affordable compared to other areas.

Bloomington, Minnesota, was highlighted as the most affordable market with a rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% for young adults. The report also noted that Austin and other top cities provide a favorable environment for entry-level jobs that require a bachelor’s degree but not extensive experience. Overall, the top markets have an average rent-to-income ratio of 22.5% for households aged 25 to 34.