BOSTON— The New York Stock Exchange may have celebrated a new financial era this morning, but Boston is making headlines of its own for being a top city where the next generation is already thriving. According to a new national study from CommercialCafe, Boston ranks #3 overall in the Best Cities for Gen Z in 2025, and is the top-ranked city in the Northeast.
The study analyzed large U.S. cities (those with populations over 400,000) across a range of criteria key to Gen Z priorities, including education enrollment, affordability, employment opportunities, and access to entertainment and green spaces. Boston not only stood out nationally but was the only Northeastern city to make the top 10 — a strong endorsement of the city’s appeal to young adults entering higher education and the workforce.
Boston by the Numbers:
#1 in Gen Z enrollment in education (61.3%)
#2 in jobs suitable for recent graduates (32.3%)
#6 lowest unemployment rate overall
High concentration of young adults and green commuting options
A City That Works for Gen Z
What sets Boston apart? Opportunity and education — two values Gen Z holds in high regard. With world-renowned institutions like Harvard, MIT, Boston University, and Northeastern, the city has the highest concentration of college students among major U.S. metros. That vibrant academic ecosystem also feeds directly into Boston’s thriving innovation sectors, from biotech and finance to sustainability and digital arts.
The report also points to Boston’s strong showing in entry-level job availability and a low unemployment rate, signaling that the city is not only a place to learn but also to launch a career.
“Boston is uniquely positioned to support young people looking to build meaningful futures,” said CommercialCafe’s research team. “The city’s commitment to education, innovation, and green living resonates with Gen Z values.”
Zoomers Leading with Purpose
According to a Corebridge Financial survey cited in the report, nearly 80% of Gen Zers are already serious about their financial planning. With a reputation for being digitally savvy, community-focused, and environmentally conscious, Gen Z is seeking cities that balance opportunity with sustainability and livability — a mix Boston appears to offer in abundance.
The city’s investment in public transit, walkability, and green commuting options adds to its appeal, especially for a generation focused on climate impact. With bike lanes, e-scooter programs, and car-free options, Boston makes it easier for young professionals to align their values with their lifestyles.
National Context
While Minneapolis topped the national ranking at #1 and Atlanta came in second, Boston’s third-place finish represents a significant regional win. The rest of the top 10 was dominated by Southern and Midwestern cities like Tampa, Raleigh, and Columbus, many of which earned high marks for affordability.
Although Boston’s cost of living remains higher than other entries in the top 10, the city’s combination of career pathways, academic excellence, and access to recreation and culture helped offset the affordability gap.
What This Means for Boston
Boston’s recognition as a Gen Z hotspot affirms its status as a city that’s not only steeped in history but also future-facing. As universities continue to draw global talent and the city expands its innovation economy, local leaders and employers alike may benefit from continuing to create spaces and systems that attract and retain the next generation.
With Gen Z poised to become the dominant force in the workforce and economy in the coming years, Boston’s ability to meet their expectations — from sustainability and equity to work-life balance and digital infrastructure — will shape its growth and relevance in the decades ahead.
Credit: This analysis was originally published by CommercialCafe
on October 6, 2025. The full study includes regional rankings and a detailed breakdown of methodology and metrics across 45 major U.S. cities.
