Imagine you were offered a dream job that required you to relocate to your favorite city. Which city would it be? And why?
If you’re like most Americans, you might select New York, San Diego, or San Francisco, according to a soon-to-be released survey of 2,500 employees and entrepreneurs across the nation by the Human Capital Institute, a Washington-based think tank and professional association largely made up of human resources professionals.
As the economy softens, this becomes more of a pressing issue because many Americans will find that they may be forced to relocate to find work. But even though some workers may not have the luxury of choice, some cities remain more desirable than others.
Favorite, Least Favorite? New York, New York
Interestingly, New York, which seems to evoke strong feelings in people, also topped the list of America’s least favorite places to live and work. Survey-takers who like the Big Apple gave it high marks for entertainment options, professional and personal opportunities, and ease of transportation. Workers who don’t like it overwhelmingly point to the high cost of living.
Detroit, which has seen its image only worsen with the collapsing auto industry, was the second-least appealing city, followed by Los Angeles [also No. 5 on the best cities list] and New Orleans.
“People have a love-hate relationship with New York,” said Allan Schweyer, the industry group’s executive director. “There are still people who think New York isn’t part of the United States. There are people who might think that even if they were offered their dream job in New York, they don’t want to go from a 3,000-square-foot house in the suburbs to a 1,200-square-foot apartment.”
Leading Factors: Environment, Affordability
The survey is part of the professional organization’s 2009 National Talent Markets report, which is meant to help cities determine how to improve and properly market…