The 15 Best Cities for Single Millennials [+Median Income]

There’s no doubt that millennials—those born between 1981 and 1996—live very differently from their parents and other generations. Millennials are rewriting the rules of work, homeownership, dating, and marriage.

And it turns out that some cities are better for single millennials than others. In this article, you’ll find our best cities for single millennials.

According to Census data, the median age for an individual’s first marriage has been steadily increasing over time. In 2018, the median age for a first marriage was nearly 30 for men and almost 28 for women, up from 23 for men and 21 for women in 1970.

In addition to putting off marriage, millennials are also more likely to be single with “no steady partner.” Data from the independent research organization NORC at the University of Chicago shows that more than 50 percent of 18 to 34-year-olds don’t have a steady partner and only 28 percent are currently married. This means that there are more young singles than ever.

Whether happily unmarried or actively searching for someone to settle down with, single millennials benefit from living in places that offer a wide range of high-paying jobs, plenty to do, and a large pool of other young singles to socialize with. And for those living in communities with higher median incomes, these millennials are also finding ways to offset living expenses, ranging from housing to their state’s average car insurance rates.

To find the best metro areas for single millennials, researchers at Insurantly analyzed data from the U.S. Census Bureau and created a composite score based on the following factors:

• Millennial share of the total population: the share of the total population born between 1981 and 1996
• Share of millennials that are single: the share of millennials that are not married
• Gender balance for single millennials: the male-female ratio among single millennials
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: the percentage of single millennials with full-time jobs
• Median income for full-time millennials: the median annual income for millennials working full-time jobs
• Arts, entertainment, and recreation businesses density: the number of arts, entertainment, and recreation businesses per 10,000 people

Only major metropolitan areas with at least 500,000 people were included in the analysis. Metros were then ranked based on their final composite score.

Interestingly, among millennials nationwide, there are about 14 percent more single men than women; bachelors outnumber unmarried girls in almost every major metro. While many of the best cities for single millennials still show an imbalance between single men and women, the ratio tends to be more balanced than average.

In the frequently asked questions section of this article, we’ll cover where millennials are moving to in 2020, the best cities for 30-somethings to live, the city with the most millennials, and the best U.S. cities in 2020 to start your life over

Regardless of which 15 cities on this list of the best cities for single millennials you live in or want to move to, getting car insurance is a must. To get the best rates as a millennial — or no matter your age — compare live quotes from different insurance companies with our free online quote comparison tool. Enter your ZIP code today to get started.

The 15 Best Cities for Single Millennials

#15 – Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN

• Overall score: 82.52
• Millennial share of total population: 21.9%
• Share of millennials that are single: 64.3%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 0.5% more women
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 56.3%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $40,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 3.79

The Indianapolis metro area has nearly equal numbers of single millennial men and women, with only 0.5 percent more single millennial women than men. The eight-mile-long Indianapolis Cultural Trail offers single millennials a terrific place to socialize. This pedestrian and bike trail provides easy access to restaurants and shops and connects downtown to several cultural districts.

#14 – Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL

• Overall score: 82.52
• Millennial share of total population: 23.7%
• Share of millennials that are single: 68.6%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 5.7% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 52.0%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $32,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 4.48

Not just retirees and families with small kids call Orlando home. Millennials make up nearly one-quarter of the population, and the metro area has much more than theme parks to keep millennials entertained. Millennials can visit one of the area’s many craft breweries or head to Wekiva Springs to cool off in the 72-degree water.

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#13 – Charleston-North Charleston, SC

• Overall score: 83.33
• Millennial share of total population: 24.0%
• Share of millennials that are single: 67.4%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 12.5% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 59.8%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $35,600
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 4.11

In recent years, Charleston has become a millennial magnet. A flourishing tech start-up economy coupled with a thriving restaurant and art scene has helped to attract droves of young residents, of which nearly two-thirds are unmarried. Walking around this historic coastal city is definitely the best way to experience it.

#12 – Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD

• Overall score: 83.66
• Millennial share of total population: 22.6%
• Share of millennials that are single: 66.8%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 11.0% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 52.8%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $45,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 3.83

Birthplace of the bottle cap, Baltimore has stayed true to its roots, developing a thriving local brewery scene. The area’s large millennial population enjoys the elusive combination of affordable housing and top-tier job opportunities in the D.C. area helps bring to the region. Young singles can enjoy sailing and endless views of the Baltimore inner harbor.

#11 – Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA

• Overall score: 83.82
• Millennial share of total population: 24.2%
• Share of millennials that are single: 72.0%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 14.4% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 48.4%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $40,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation business density: 12.40

It’s no surprise that L.A. is popular among millennials. Beautiful weather, beaches, and a thriving restaurant/bar scene give this group plenty to do. Los Angeles has the highest proportion of single millennials on this list; that, combined with a vibrant culture, means that there is no shortage of opportunities to meet new people.

#10 – Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO

• Overall score: 84.07
• Millennial share of total population: 24.2%
• Share of millennials that are single: 62.1%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 16.0% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 61.6%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $43,700
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation business density: 4.20

Young, active millennials in the Denver metro area can go skiing in the winter or mountain biking and hiking in the summer. But millennials in the “Mile High City” are not all play and no work. The metro area boasts a strong job market and has the highest percentage of single millennials employed full-time at over 61 percent.

#9 – Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD

• Overall score: 84.40
• Millennial share of total population: 22.3%
• Share of millennials that are single: 71.6%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 6.1% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 49.5%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $42,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation business density: 3.77

At more than 71 percent, Philadelphia has one of the largest populations of unmarried millennials. Philly’s numerous breweries, live music venues, and farmers’ markets give young residents plenty to do in their free time. All of these also make great date spots for a large single population.

#8 – Nashville-Davidson–Murfreesboro–Franklin, TN

• Overall score: 84.64
• Millennial share of total population: 23.3%
• Share of millennials that are single: 60.4%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 3.7% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 57.1%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $38,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation business density: 6.54

Millennials in Nashville take advantage of its restaurants, live music, and emerging arts scene. Single millennials in Nashville also do well in the job market, with over 57 percent working in full-time jobs. While the median income for full-time millennials is lower than most locations on this list, so is the cost of living.

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#7 – Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY

• Overall score: 84.97
• Millennial share of total population: 20.9%
• Share of millennials that are single: 71.3%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 10.7% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 52.9%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $45,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation business density: 4.63

The capital of New York is home to a large millennial population, of which over 71 percent are single. Downtown Albany is the place to be for millennials, boasting cocktail bars, beer gardens, and craft coffee houses. The metro area’s harsh winters do not deter young residents from enjoying the outdoors. Hockey and ice skating are both popular winter activities.

#6 – Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV

• Overall score: 85.70
• Millennial share of total population: 23.3%
• Share of millennials that are single: 66.0%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 10.2% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 56.2%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $52,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 3.52

Well-educated young people flock to the Washington, D.C. area after college to find jobs and enjoy the big city life. Nearly two-thirds of D.C.’s large millennial population is not married, creating an active dating scene in the nation’s capital.

#5 – Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI

• Overall score: 85.95
• Millennial share of total population: 22.6%
• Share of millennials that are single: 68.6%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 7.1% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 52.4%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $43,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 3.82

While Chicago millennials must put up with brutal winters, they enjoy reliable public transportation, world-class restaurants, and a flourishing nightlife. Compared to New York and San Francisco, the Windy City is a more affordable place for millennials to call home.

#4 – Austin-Round Rock, TX

• Overall score: 86.36
• Millennial share of total population: 26.1%
• Share of millennials that are single: 64.0%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 14.6% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 57.7%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $43,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 4.37

The “Live Music Capital of the World” claims the largest percentage of millennials on the list, with this age group making up 26.1 percent of the population. In addition, 64 percent of these millennials are not married. Austin boasts not only a fantastic live music scene and a wealth of outdoor recreation activities, but also a burgeoning tech hub with plenty of well-paying jobs spanning a variety of professions.

#3 – San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA

• Overall score: 88.32
• Millennial share of total population: 24.0%
• Share of millennials that are single: 68.1%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 13.2% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 53.9%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $60,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 4.37

Well-known millennial hotbed San Francisco is home to a large proportion of single millennials, many of whom work demanding (and well-paying) jobs. Despite exorbitant housing costs, the Bay Area has a great foodie scene, hundreds of bars, and plenty of activities to keep singles busy in their free time.

#2 – New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA

• Overall score: 88.81
• Millennial share of total population: 22.9%
• Share of millennials that are single: 69.9%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 8.3% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 51.4%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $48,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 6.07

A large majority of the Big Apple’s sizable millennial population is not married. The New York metro is home to many restaurants, bars, and clubs, so single millennials can take a break from dating apps and meet other singles the old-fashioned way. In addition to its social and cultural perks, New York offers a consistent supply of high-paying jobs for young professionals—most notably in technology and finance.

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#1 – Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH

• Overall score: 91.34
• Millennial share of total population: 23.4%
• Share of millennials that are single: 69.4%
• Gender balance for single millennials: 7.0% more men
• Percentage of single millennials employed full-time: 52.7%
• Median income for full-time millennials: $50,000
• Arts, entertainment, & recreation businesses density: 5.08

Boston claims the number one spot on the list with a large number of single millennials, high-paying jobs, and no shortage of entertainment. Young, single Boston residents find that the metro area offers a number of unique spots for dates, including watching a ball game at Fenway Park, taking a stroll around Cambridge, or enjoying the 360-degree views of Boston while having dinner at the Top of the Hub.

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*Number of Arts, Entertainment, & Recreation Businesses for every 10,000 Residents

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Live and to Start Over

Now that we’ve covered the 15 best cities for single millennials, let’s get to your frequently asked questions. They include:

• Where is the best place to live if you are single?
• Where do most Millennials live?
• What are the worst cities for dating?

And many more. Let’s jump right in.

#1 – Where is the best place to live if you are single?

If you are single and a millennial, the best place to live according to our ranking is Boston, Massachusetts. Reasons include a relatively high median income along with a high percentage of millennials who are single.

If you are single at any age, the best place to live will likely come down to your interests and salary. Some smaller cities, like Jacksonville, Florida, may be more appealing because the price of entertainment and dating costs are cheaper.

#2 – Where is the best place to live in your 20s?

If you’re in your 20s, numerous factors will go into your decision about where to live. Two of those factors that are incredibly important are the availability of entry-level jobs and housing costs.

From that respect, finding an area where there are numerous economic opportunities and the city’s economy has been growing and will continue to do so is significant. Areas in California, Texas, or the Northeast might fall under those categories.

However, those areas often have high housing prices, so it’s about finding a happy medium

#3 – Where do most Millennials live?

The most popular city for millennials is Seattle, which has one of the highest percentage shares of millennials in its population compared to the other cities in the country.

Others include Denver, Colorado, Sacramento, California, and Columbia, South Carolina, among others.

#4 – What city are Millennials moving to?

If you look at individual city migration data (provided by the U.S. Census Bureau), millennials are moving to many of the metro areas we’ve listed in our ranking: Seattle, Austin, Denver, Nashville, and others

#5 – Where should I move if I am single?

While there is no tried-and-true answer to this question, if you’re a single of any age, you’re probably looking for a few common things: a vibrant singles scene, a relatively low cost of dating or entertainment expenses, varied opportunities for dates, and a bustling area full of opportunity

#6 – What are the worst cities for dating?

The worst cities for dating are often the opposite of the best cities for dating: There are a lower number of bars, coffee shops, or places where singles can meet; a lower number of singles in general, limiting a person’s option for finding a date; and a more expensive dating scene, where a $100 meal might not be uncommon

#7 – What’s the best city to start over in?

If you’re looking for a city to start over in, the first part of identifying that city is to ask yourself what you’re looking for. Someone who likes outdoorsy activities and a slower pace of life might choose a city in the mountains, whereas someone who wants to be in a creative community might choose LA, NYC, or even Oklahoma City.

Sometimes, cheaper is better, like in Memphis, Tennessee. Or maybe you live a mix of excitement and chill like Las Vegas (for real, though).

#8 – Where is a good place to start a new life?

As in the answer above, it all depends on what you’re looking for. But expanding on that answer, much can depend on economic circumstances too. Two cities that have the same vibe or offer the same amenities may rank differently because of their cost of living.

Entering into a new career field might also dictate the city where you want to live

Methodology: Determining the Best Cities for Single Millennials

The data on the millennial share of the total population, the share of millennials that are single, the percentage of single millennials employed full-time, the median income for full-time millennials, and the singles gender balance for millennials is from the 2017 American Community Survey Public Use Microdata Sample (ACS PUMS) dataset.

Data on the density of arts, entertainment, and recreation businesses comes from the Census Bureau’s County Business Patterns report and is defined as the number of arts, entertainment, and recreation establishments per 10,000 people in a metropolitan area.

The main source of data, then, was the U.S. Census Bureau.

Metro areas were scored for each of the six statistics, and a composite score was created by taking the average of the six scores. Metro areas were then ranked by the composite score. Only metro areas that have at least 500,000 people were included in the final rankings.

The Pew Research Center’s definition of millennials is people born from 1981 to 1996; therefore, people aged 21-36 are used in the analysis of the ACS PUMS data.

Whether you’re a millennial or not, saving on car insurance is a big win for everyone. Plug your ZIP code into our free online quote generator to see the best car insurance rates in your area, personalized for your insurance needs.

1. https://www.census.gov/

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