Job hunting isn’t always as easy as looking for a new company. Often, finding a new job means moving to a new area where you can find job satisfaction. There are job opportunities in all 50 states, but some states are better than others for job seekers looking to take the next step in their careers.  

Best States for Jobs

These states are among the best for job applicants because of their low unemployment rates, the potential for job growth, median annual income, and availability in certain industries. Take these cost of living factors into account when deciding if you can afford to live in each state based on the current job market. 

Colorado

Unemployment rate: 5.4%

Projected job growth rate: 1%

Median annual income (2019): $72,331

Average commute time: 25 minutes

This state tops the list among the best for finding a new job. Although the long-term job growth rate is expected to slow to 1%, the Colorado Department of Labor anticipates an increase in employment. You can expect to see more jobs in the areas of business and financial operations, food preparation, and transportation. 

South Dakota

Unemployment rate: 2.9%

Projected job growth rate: 7.1%

Median annual income (2019): $58,275

Average commute time: 16.9 minutes

If you’re looking for new summer opportunities in the Mount Rushmore State, then this may be the place for you, with job growth in leisure and hospitality at 7.2%. According to the South Dakota Workforce report, advertised job opportunities peaked in the summer of 2021, with the highest number in August 2021. 

New Hampshire

Unemployment rate: 2.2%

Projected job growth rate: 5.3%

Median annual income (2019): $76,768

Average commute time: 28 minutes

New Hampshire is another state with a low unemployment rate of 2.2%. New Hampshire has become a top spot for IT employers, thanks to more than 1,442 job listings between August and September 2021. 

North Dakota 

Unemployment rate: 3.3%

Projected job growth rate: -17%

Median annual income (2019): $64,894

Average commute time: 18 minutes

The unemployment rate in North Dakota is 3.3%, one of the country’s lowest rates. Therefore, it was named one of the best states for job seekers in 2021. Despite the state having a low projected job growth rate over the next decade, North Dakota has seen a 5.5% year-on-year employment increase from Q2 (April to June) of 2020, and weekly wages were up by 0.6% from the same quarter a year ago. 

The state’s economy is booming and boasts 30,000 jobs waiting to be filled. North Dakota’s major occupational groups reflect the greatest need for healthcare practitioners.

Worst States for Jobs

These states offer the lowest chances of finding a new job based on salaries, low job growth rates, and the number of unemployed people. 

Arkansas

Unemployment rate: 3.7%

Projected job growth rate: 8.42%

Median annual income (2019): $47,597

Average commute time: 21.7 minutes

Arkansas faces a high unemployment rate. Low median salaries place it among the worst states for job seekers. In Arkansas, commute times are also high. Madison County clocks in at about 35 minutes. 

Louisiana

Unemployment rate: 5.4%

Projected job growth rate: 8.3%

Median annual income (2019): $49,469

Average commute time: 25.5 minutes

Workers face low salaries and long commute times in Louisiana. These two factors make it clear why Louisiana ranks low for its job market. 

West Virginia

Unemployment rate: 4.3%

Projected job growth rate: 1%

Median annual income (2019): $48,741

Average commute time: 25.8 minutes

West Virginia has the lowest projected job growth rate of only 1%. Its low salaries and long commute times make it challenging to find a job. 

Wyoming

Unemployment rate: 4.5%

Projected job growth rate: -8%

Median annual income (2019): $64,049

Average commute time: 17.8 minutes

Despite its high median income and short travel time, this state has a low employment growth rate. Employment opportunities may be scarce in the state. 

Use Jobsfuel.com to Relocate for Your Next Career Move

To find the best state to advance your career while enjoying a reasonable cost of living, you’ll need to research factors like housing expenses and opportunities in your field of employment. 

Jobsfuel.com helps you find full-time jobs in these states so you can relocate and start a new career. Set up job alerts for the areas that interest you and learn about job interview preparation to land a position that interests you in a state you’re excited to move to.