As we approach 2023, change is occurring on all sides, especially with black professionals who are always on the move looking for the best career opportunities, environmental conditions, low living costs, a larger black population, and an excellent quality of life.
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If you’re a black professional looking to grow your career in 2023, the United States is a great place to start. In 2023, the US will have the highest percentage of black professionals than any other country. And while that’s great news for black professionals everywhere, there are some cities in particular where they’re more likely to find opportunities and support.
In an effort to help black professionals find the best places to live, we’ve compiled a list of the top eight best cities for black professionals in the U.S. that are currently welcoming and friendly toward black professionals looking for career advancement.
Here are the Best Cities for Black Professionals Seeking Growth in 2023
Atlanta, GA
One of the best cities for black professionals is Atlanta, Georgia. Atlanta is one of the most populated black cities in the United States, with a 33.4% black population. Economically, Atlanta is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies with significant black populations—including Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines—and has been named one of the top ten most diverse places for young professionals. It’s also the birthplace of Black Lives Matter and has one of the most diverse populations in America overall.
Chicago, IL
Another good place for black professionals is Chicago, Illinois. Chicago ranks as one of America’s best cities for black professionals according to The Black Demographics Report released by Forbes magazine earlier this year. Its growing tech sector has helped it become one of America’s fastest-growing economies over recent years, making it a great city for growing careers as well.
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh ranked 5th for Best Cities for Black Professionals in 2019. Also, Raleigh has a reasonably strong economy for a city of its size and has a reputation as a tech hub. According to the Census Bureau, the city has high youthful energy, with a youth population of over 20%.
Black professionals relocating to Raleigh don’t need to break a sweat on accommodations. According to Zumper, the average monthly rent in Raleigh for a one-bedroom apartment as of October 23rd is $1,265.
Charlotte, NC
With a promising cultural landscape, community-focused neighborhoods, and fascinating openings in divergent industries across the state, Charlotte ranks as one of the best cities for black professionals in the US.
The “Queen City” provides opportunities in various sectors but has more experience in the manufacturing, financial services, and transportation industries. Also, the city houses some of the most prominent brand headquarters, including Bank of America, Sonic Automotive, Lowe’s Inc, Duke Energy, etc.
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Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland city has a population of 367,991 people with a 47.6% black populace. Cleveland cuts across the northeastern part of Ohio, along the southern shore of Lake Erie.
The city of Cleveland has one of the lowest living costs and sits 22.9% below the U.S average. Economically, many analysts consider Cleveland a star with a growing economy. Its most significant industrial sectors include retail, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Indianapolis, IN
According to Incfile, Indianapolis ranks third as the best city for black entrepreneurs. Despite its low black demographic, the city hosts the headquarters of companies like American Bell, Corteva, and Anthem, with a diverse culture. has one of the lowest living costs compared to other states.
Houston, TX
Houston is best known for its bipolar weather temperatures (it switches between sunny and stormy easily). Compared to Los Angeles, Houston does not have a segregated populace and welcomes cultural diversity.
Houston has one of the country’s most robust economies and one of the strongest job markets. Houston has the fourth-most corporate headquarters of Fortune 500 companies in the United States.
Lastly, Houston dominates the energy sector, especially oil and gas. The city also has vital medical research, healthcare industries, and technology.
Rochester, NY
Considered the black entrepreneur’s dream, Rochester continues to provide fantastic opportunities for black professionals in divergent industries across New York.
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Rochester is one of the best cities for black professionals seeking a career trajectory due to its low cost of living, with a 39.4% black population.
It is important to note that these cities were judged on the following criteria: economic viability, living cost, black population percentage, etc.
