Austin, October 14, 2025
News Summary
Austin has been recognized as the 8th best city in the U.S. for Gen Z residents according to a survey by CommercialCafe. The city ranks high due to its employment opportunities, startup ecosystem, and vibrant recreational scene. Approximately 7.5% of Austin’s population falls within the Gen Z age group, making it an attractive destination for young individuals seeking culture and career prospects.
Austin has been recognized as the 8th best city for Gen Z individuals to live in the United States, according to a new survey by CommercialCafe. The survey identified several attractive qualities about the city, making it a favorable destination for young residents seeking culture and career opportunities. Additionally, Austin ranks as the 4th best city for Gen Z in the Southern United States.
The survey analyzed nine key metrics that influence the living conditions for Gen Zers, including cost of living, employment rates for college graduates, the population percentage aged 20-24, and the availability of recreational activities. Notably, Minneapolis, Minnesota, topped the list as the No. 1 best city for Gen Z, highlighting a trend where many young individuals are gravitating towards urban centers that offer vibrant lifestyles.
Currently, approximately 7.5% of Austin’s total population is comprised of individuals aged between 20 and 24, which translates to about 74,495 residents. The study classifies Gen Z participants as those born between 1997 and 2012, indicating that the youngest members of this generation are currently 13 years old, while the oldest are reaching 28.
Austin’s appeal to Gen Z is bolstered by its startup ecosystem, which actively attracts young talent. The city ranks 6th nationally in the metric for jobs for graduates and boasts a low unemployment rate of 4.3%, which is below the national average. The overall cost of internet services in the city is described as below average, making it particularly attractive for young professionals who depend heavily on connectivity.
Furthermore, Austin is rich in recreational opportunities with over 3,200 recreational places and a high number of parks per capita, contributing to its livability for young people. The influx of Gen Z residents has been significant, with Austin having the 20th highest inflow of Gen Z residents in 2023.
The report from CommercialCafe underscores the potential of Gen Z as a valuable asset to communities due to their tech skills and a strong focus on community engagement. Even though Gen Z has been subject to criticism, they are increasingly viewed as financially savvy and mindful of their living costs.
In terms of state-level rankings, Houston follows Austin as the 9th best city for Gen Z, while San Antonio ranks 11th, Fort Worth 20th, El Paso 26th, and Dallas 27th. The vibrant culture, music scene, and recreational activities are recognized as significant factors driving younger generations to consider Austin as their home.
Key Metrics for Gen Z Living in Austin
| Metric | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Population aged 20-24 | 7.5% (Approx. 74,495 residents) |
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% |
| Jobs for graduates ranking | 6th nationally |
| Recreational places | Over 3,200 |
| Gen Z Population Inflow (2023) | 20th highest in the U.S. |
FAQ
Where does Austin rank among U.S. cities for Gen Z?
Austin is ranked as the 8th best city for Gen Z individuals to live in the U.S.
What percentage of Austin’s population is aged 20 to 24?
Approximately 7.5% of Austin’s population is aged between 20 and 24, translating to about 74,495 residents.
How does Austin compare in terms of employment opportunities for graduates?
Austin ranks 6th nationally in the metric for jobs for graduates.
What is the unemployment rate in Austin?
The unemployment rate in Austin is 4.3%, which is below the national average.
How many recreational places are available in Austin?
There are over 3,200 recreational places in Austin, contributing to its attractiveness for young residents.
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Additional Resources
- The Daily Texan: Vinyl Records Revival Among Gen Z in Austin
- Wikipedia: Generation Z
- Statesman: Millennial Men Worst Dressed People at ACL Fest
- Google Search: Austin City Limits
- CultureMap Austin: Office Arts Culture Music Entertainment
- Google Scholar: Austin Culture
- Pollstar: Global Country Fan Is Younger and Eager for More
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Music Scene
- Texas Monthly: Dylan Gossett Austin City Limits
- Google News: Gen Z Austin Music
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
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