Raleigh, North Carolina, has earned the prestigious title of the best-performing large metropolitan area in the United States, according to the 2025 Milken Institute Best-Performing Cities (BPC) report. This marks the city’s rise to the top after consistently ranking among the top three large cities in recent years. See the full study here.
2025 Milken Institute Best-Performing Cities Index
LARGE US CITIES: TIER I
Raleigh, NC
Ogden–Clearfield, UT
Salt Lake City, UT
Huntsville, AL
Colorado Springs, CO
Austin–Round Rock, TX
Fayetteville–Springdale–Rogers, AR–MO
Olympia–Tumwater, WA
Palm Bay–Melbourne–Titusville, FL
Boise City, ID
Charleston–North Charleston, SC
Myrtle Beach–Conway–North Myrtle Beach, SC–NC
SMALL US CITIES: TIER I
Gainesville, GA
St. George, UT
Idaho Falls, ID
Bend–Redmond, OR
Midland, TX
Jefferson City, MO
Coeur d’Alene, ID
Jacksonville, NC
Missoula, MT
Auburn–Opelika, AL
The Villages, FL
Winchester, VA–WV
Elizabethtown–Fort Knox, KY
Wenatchee, WA
Lawrence, KS
What Makes Raleigh Stand Out?
Raleigh’s rise to the top of the BPC rankings isn’t just about job numbers—it’s also about the city’s quality of life and overall economic opportunities. With its highly educated workforce, growing tech industry, and innovative startups, Raleigh continues to attract high-tech firms and major corporate headquarters from around the world.
Beyond work, Raleigh offers a dynamic lifestyle, from its lush parks and greenways to its vibrant downtown and rich arts, music, and restaurant scene. As Mayor Janet Cowell expressed, “Raleigh consistently tops best-of lists for good reasons. Our diverse offerings outside of work make it a wonderful place to call home.”
A Hub for Economic Opportunity
According to Maggie Switek, PhD, senior director of research at the Milken Institute, Raleigh’s success showcases how strong economic performance can coexist with an environment that provides residents with ample opportunities to thrive. “Raleigh has experienced remarkable employment and wage growth, supported by a robust high-tech sector,” Switek said.
Raleigh’s ranking also reflects its resilience in providing widespread access to broadband internet, strong labor market conditions, and relatively low levels of income inequality—key factors that have made the city particularly attractive to younger generations of workers.
Growth Across the Country
While Raleigh shines as the leader among large cities, the BPC report also highlights strong growth in other metros across the country, including smaller cities like Gainesville, GA, which claimed the top spot in the small city category. The report underscores a broader trend of cities with diverse industries experiencing stable and sustainable growth.
For prospective homeowners and real estate investors in Raleigh, this recognition as the top-performing city adds to its allure as a place to live, work, and invest. The city’s job market and economic vitality contribute not only to a strong housing market but also to long-term value for those looking to call Raleigh home.
Raleigh: A City on the Rise
Raleigh’s success is no accident—it’s the result of a city that has made thoughtful investments in its future. With its thriving job market, innovative spirit, and high quality of life, it’s no wonder Raleigh continues to top national rankings. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, invest in real estate, or simply explore a city brimming with opportunity, Raleigh should be at the top of your list.
If you’re considering a move to this dynamic city, let me help you navigate Raleigh’s real estate market. As a local expert, I can guide you to the best neighborhoods and investment opportunities in this exciting, fast-growing area.
—
For more details on Raleigh’s ranking and to explore the latest trends in the housing market, feel free to reach out. Together, we can make your real estate dreams a reality in one of the most thriving cities in the U.S.!
—
*Source: Milken Institute 2025 Best-Performing Cities Report*