LinkedIn Says Grand Rapids is No. 1 in Jobs and Talent

For the first time, LinkedIn has ranked the “Cities on the Rise,” spotlighting 25 mid-size U.S. cities where jobs are growing, new talent is moving in, and local economies are gaining momentum.

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What Is LinkedIn’s “Cities on the Rise”?

The list tracks where people are moving, jobs are booming, and hiring is heating up. It focuses on metros with fewer than 2.5 million LinkedIn members, using their exclusive labor market data along with insights from Lyft, Realtor.com, and the Bureau of Economic Analysis to show not just where people work, but how they live. To make the cut, cities had to show year-over-year growth in job postings, hiring activity, and talent migration.

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So why mid-size cities? LinkedIn says they’re proving they can compete with larger metro areas by offering a lower cost of living, more cultural amenities, and better access to the outdoors.

At the very top of the list: Grand Rapids, ranked the No. 1 city on the rise in the U.S.

Why Grand Rapids Stands Out in 2025 for Jobs and Talent

The report credits Grand Rapids with shedding its industrial past and building momentum in tech and insurance. Young professionals are drawn by the strong job market, a lively downtown, and the city’s proximity to Lake Michigan.

Key industries fueling growth include manufacturing, healthcare, and professional services. Major employers like Corewell Health, Grand Valley State University, and Meijer are leading the way. The study also notes bookstores and movie theaters as popular local spots, a nod to Grand Rapids’ cultural scene.

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The average income here is $65,235, with homes listing for about $524,195, according to the report.

What City Leaders Are Saying About LinkedIn's Ranking

City of Grand Rapids Economic Development Director Sarah Rainero says:

This ranking is a testament to the hard work of our public and private partners in fostering economic development, investing in innovation, and building a city where people want to live and work. We’re thrilled to see our momentum once again recognized on a national stage. Grand Rapids continues to shine as a premier destination for professionals looking for meaningful work and an exceptional lifestyle.

Having lived here for more than 20 years, it’s been interesting to watch Grand Rapids evolve—and it’s exciting to see that shift get national recognition.

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LinkedIn's Top 5 Cities on the Rise in 2025

Curious about the LinkedIn's other "Cities on the Rise"? Here's the rest of the Top 5:

1. Grand Rapids, Michigan
2. Boise, Idaho
3. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
4. Albany, New York
5. Milwaukee, Wisconsin