Metro population: 453,603

Cost-of-living index: 100

Median monthly rent/utilities: $630 (avg. is $819)

Average annual wage: $41,773

Unemployment rate: 10.2%

% of Gen Y residents: 26.9%

Top employers: State government, Michigan State University, Sparrow Health System, General Motors, Lansing Community College, Ingham Regional Medical Center, Lansing School District, Meijer


Home to five medical schools, two law schools and Michigan State University, Michigan’s capital is a little-known hotbed for young professionals. Granted, this Great Lakes community can’t quite compare to the larger cities on our list in terms of job prospects or things to do. But it has a relatively low cost of living. And its youthful population, downtown renewal projects, and emerging technology sector make Lansing a stand-out in mid-sized cities.

PROS: Cheap rent well below the national average, a respectable bar and club scene, high-paying job opportunities in bio and Internet technologies. Average commute is only 20 minutes.

CONS: Public transportation is unimpressive, long winters, unemployment rate is a full point above the norm (the opportunities here skew toward the highly skilled)

MAP: Lansing Employers and Attractions