Fargo in North Dakota is ranked as the best city in the United States for Gen Z workers, according to a research conducted by Checkr, a platform that uses AI to make background screening more efficient.

The city of Fargo boasts a combination of affordability and employment factors for Gen Zers, which is why it is considered as the best choice for young professionals in the workforce.

“On top of those metrics, Fargo is also well-known for its thriving art scene, entrepreneurial spirit, and a plethora of green spaces, parks, and recreational areas for outdoor enthusiasts,” wrote Checkr.

The top five best cities for Gen Z workers is a group of midwestern cities, including Oshkosh, WI, Cedar Rapids, IA, Bismarck, ND, and Madison, WI.

Checkr analysed data to uncover the 100 best cities within the US for Gen Z workers in 2024, along with the top 25 for large, mid-sized, and small cities.Gen Z age range is between 18-27 for all US cities.

The seven key factors from the US Census Bureau & Bureau of Economic Analysis include Gen Z unemployment rate, labour force participation rate, income-to-rent ratio, percentage of renters paying <30% of income in rent, real personal income, Gen Z portion of the population, and Gen Z members per entertainment establishment. 

According to data sourced to the US Census Bureau and Bureau of Economic Analysis, Checkr concluded that the best US cities for Gen Z workers were based on three categories: employment, affordability, and social aspects. 

The aim of this analysis is to help employers in these highly ranked cities understand the importance of embracing Gen Z workers to widen their talent pool, tap into Gen Z’s diverse skill set, and bring innovative perspectives into the workplace.

Various businesses are working to understand how Gen Z engages with work, collaborates with colleagues, and leverages technology to foster a cohesive and productive work environment. 

Gen Z, is the first fully digital-native generation that is categorised by innovation, adaptability, and a keen awareness of the rapidly changing global landscape. 

Their entrance into the labour market has created change as the market gets younger. 

“Whichever way you feel, it’s important to understand that younger workers are entering the labor market and businesses may wish to consider embracing Gen Z workers and the immense talent and viewpoints they provide,” wrote Checkr.

“Gen Z brings a unique set of characteristics, values, and technological fluency to the workplace,” said Checkr.

Each of the following key factors was assigned to one of the previously mentioned categories, which were then appropriately weighted to reveal the top cities for Gen Z workers.