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12 of the Best States for Job Seekers, According to a New Report

Finding a job can be a real challenge, right? Whether it’s your first position or you’re looking for a better salary or benefits, it’s easy to feel stuck. But the reality is, it’s not just about working hard—being in the wrong place can make all that effort go to waste.

The unemployment rate in the U.S. is 4.2%, which means millions of Americans are unemployed. If you’re struggling, you’re definitely not alone. In fact, over 70% of job seekers feel like the current job market isn’t playing in their favor.

A new study has analyzed the numbers to identify the best states for jobs. These hot spots provide a stable job market, competitive salaries, and excellent benefits. Plus, they’re perfect for those looking to build a career and raise a family. Check out these top states that might make your job search a bit easier. 

New Hampshire

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA townscape.
Editorial credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

Job seekers, you won’t have to scratch your head trying to figure out where to build your career—New Hampshire’s is the answer. With a low 2% unemployment rate and job opportunities growing by 1.7% each year, this state is a goldmine for career growth. Plus, there’s no income tax, which is a huge bonus.

But that’s not all. New Hampshire boasts the lowest poverty rate for workers, a high percentage of residents with private health insurance, and excellent retirement plan access. Once you land a job here, you’re likely to keep it.

Vermont

Burlington, Vermont, USA at Church Street Marketplace.
Photo credit: Sean Pavone // Shutterstock.com

If you’re job hunting, Vermont should be on your radar, too. With a 2% unemployment rate and the highest job growth rate in the country, it’s a great place to find opportunities. Only 0.5% of the workforce is unemployed for more than 15 weeks, so you’ll likely land a job quickly.

Vermont’s secret is a low-income tax burden, especially for people earning under $50,000, and great job conditions like a 37.5-hour workweek and short 23-minute average drives to and from work. Plus, with excellent job security and access to retirement plans, you’re set for a long and stable career. But you should know that most jobs in Vermont are in insurance, government, healthcare, and education. 

Minnesota

Aerial View of the popular Canal Park Area of Duluth, Minnesota
Editorial credit: Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock.com

Looking for a job with a solid salary? Minnesota offers a median household income of over $82,000 and an average starting monthly salary of nearly $3,900. You’ll also get great benefits like private health insurance and retirement plans.

The 2.7% unemployment rate means plenty of job opportunities, and the low cost of living means your salary stretches further. Commuting is not a problem either—traffic is manageable, especially if you’re used to the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Massachusetts

Boston, Massachusetts, USA skyline with Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market at dusk.
Editorial credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

I often hear people saying how difficult it is to land a job in Boston, especially with so many Ivy League grads competing for the same positions. But Massachusetts actually has the second-highest employment growth in the U.S. It’s a state known for strong job opportunities and a booming economy.

With proximity to major employers and industries, Massachusetts is an attractive place to work and live. It’s also a great spot if you’re looking to relocate from nearby states like New York. With the fifth-shortest work week in the U.S., there’s plenty of time to enjoy life outside of work! Just keep in mind that commuting can sometimes be a challenge due to difficult traffic conditions.

North Dakota

Badlands in the Little Missouri National Grassland North Dakota ND US. Created 09.14.23
Photo credit: Dennis MacDonald // Shutterstock.com

North Dakota has nearly 30,000 job openings waiting to be filled, with the lowest unemployment rate in the country at just 2%. While work hours here can be longer, commutes are quick—the second shortest in the nation! It’s a place where opportunities and quality of life align perfectly.

The state’s booming economy isn’t just about oil and gas, though these industries continue to grow in the area. Agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and even the Minot Air Force Base offer plenty of jobs. 

Virginia

City of Charlottesville, Virginia looking down from above.
Photo credit: Sean Pavone // Shutterstock.com

Virginia is a goldmine for job seekers with its diverse economy, strong labor market, and thriving small business scene. It’s wild that there are 47 available workers for every 100 open jobs here! Did you know the state boasts the highest median annual income and the fourth-highest average starting salary? Talk about setting the bar high.

The unemployment rate is way below the national average, and a third of workers enjoy remote flexibility. If you’re commuting, the 28.6-minute average isn’t bad either. Between great pay and opportunities, Virginia should be on your list!

Maine

Portland, Maine, USA coastal townscape.
Photo credit: Sean Pavone // Shutterstock.com

Maine’s economy depends on tourism, healthcare, education, and fishing, making it ideal if your skills align with these industries. It ranks fourth in employment growth and has one of the lowest unemployment rates. The only downside is that Maine has the second-lowest median annual income, and many jobs focus on blue-collar work, which might not appeal to those in tech, finance, or corporate roles.

But here’s the silver lining: Maine offers a better work-life balance, shorter commutes, and coastal weekends. If you’re craving a slower pace with remote options, Maine might just win you over!

Rhode Island

Providence, Rhode Island, USA park and skyline.
Photo credit: Sean Pavone // Shutterstock.com

Nobody likes endless work hours, and Rhode Island gets that. It has the third-shortest average workweek, leaving more time for everything else you love.

This tiny state punches above its weight class in industries like healthcare, education, tourism, and manufacturing. But heads up—it’s densely populated, so competition for jobs and promotions can be stiff. While state-based jobs are on the rise, starting salaries here rank among the fourth-lowest. If work-life balance matters more to you than pay, Rhode Island might just be worth a closer look.

South Dakota

Aerial View of Sioux Falls, South Dakota at Sunset
Photo credit: Jacob Boomsma // Shutterstock.com

South Dakota makes job hunting easy with the fourth most job opportunities, the lowest unemployment rate, and super short commutes. Plus, no state income tax means you get to keep more of your paycheck—a big win for your bank account.

The economy thrives on agriculture, healthcare, and tourism, but if you’re after niche professions or more variety, options might feel a bit limited. Fair warning: South Dakota has one of the longest workweeks in the country.

Maryland

Annapolis, Maryland, USA downtown view over Main Street with the State House.
Editorial credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

The Old Line State has one of the lowest unemployment rates, so finding a job here won’t drive you crazy. With thriving sectors like healthcare, government, and tech—especially cybersecurity and biotech—Maryland is a hotspot for career growth. Let’s not forget its proximity to D.C., offering endless opportunities in politics, defense, and federal work.

However, driving back and forth to work is one drawback. Maryland has the second-longest average commute, with Baltimore’s rush hour being a real test of patience. But on the bright side, it has low work-related stress and one of the highest median household incomes in the nation. Not bad, right?

Wisconsin

Madison, Wisconsin, USA state capitol building at dusk.
Photo credit: Sean Pavone // Shutterstock.com

Wisconsin’s low unemployment rate means there are plenty of job opportunities. The job hubs are mainly around Milwaukee and Madison, where you’ll find Fortune 500 companies ready to hire talent. Outside the cities, the market focuses on essential sectors like agriculture, education, healthcare, and tourism.

The state offers a low cost of living, making it a practical choice if you’re just starting your career. Just keep in mind taxes can be a bit high, ranging from 3.50% to 7.65%, depending on your income. 

Connecticut

Aerial view of Middletown, Connecticut at sunset in November
Photo credit: Mark F Lotterhand // Shutterstock.com

Connecticut is hiring! There are 90,000 jobs up for grabs across industries like aerospace, healthcare, and insurance. Major employers here are Pratt & Whitney, Hartford Hospital, and Aetna. Just be aware that the state has one of the highest tax burdens in the U.S.

You won’t have to worry about too much overtime, though—the state has the fifth shortest workweek. With 14 Fortune 500 companies calling it home, opportunities are plentiful!

Source: WalletHub

Read more: 10 of the Worst States for Jobs in the U.S., According to a New Study

Read more: 10 States and Cities in the U.S. that Pay You to Move to Them

Read more: The 12 Best Jobs in the United States, According to a New Report

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