The Greatist -- The verdict is in: 20-somethings want to live in cities. The question then becomes: Which urban centers offer the best situation for those in their 20s? Some things at the top of young adults’ wish lists are universally agreeable (cheap rent, a good job market, and great public transportation). Others are up for debate—do 20-somethings care about fitness, finding love, or the local startup scene? 

We took dozens of factors (check out our methodology below) into consideration to determine the top 20 cities for 20-somethings. Did your hometown (or dream town) make the list?

Salt Lake City, UT

Salt Lake City might be landlocked, but it sure has a chill surfer vibe. SLC earned the honor of least-stressed city because of its minimal cost of living and low unemployment rate. But maybe locals are stress-free because they’re so well fed—Salt Lake was just named one of America’s five new foodie cities. Plus, what other major city allows you to hit the slopes right after work at one of the four major ski resorts just minutes from city limits? Word seems to have gotten out that this city is perfect for young people—one in six residents is in their 20s.

 

Methodology: Every year, Greatist gathers statistics from a number of sources to assemble the 20 best cities for 20-somethings. (Check out last year's list here.) Criteria considered for this year’s ranking included: fitness, eco-consciousness, housing cost, public transportation, overall well being, and bars and nightlife. Do you think we missed a city? Send a message to tips@greatist.com and we’ll consider it for next year’s ranking.