These NC metros are the best for new jobs in the US, report says
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- LinkedIn ranked Wilmington and the Triangle in top 25 fastest-growing job metros.
- Wilmington sees hiring boosts from port investments and manufacturing expansion.
- Triangle area attracts talent through biotech growth and university-driven demand.
If you’re on the hunt for a new job, two North Carolina cities have been named among the best in the country for hiring.
LinkedIn released its inaugural list of Cities on the Rise in the U.S. “where hiring is accelerating, job postings are surging and talent migration is reshaping local economies.”
Of the top 25 fastest-growing metro areas for jobs, the Greater Wilmington area ranked No. 12, followed by the Triangle area at No. 19.
Why Wilmington is a hot job market
“This part of the Carolina coast is in the midst of a growth spurt, doubling down on efforts to attract big business with port investments — as major employers like GE pour millions into local facilities,” the report says.
LinkedIn indicated that the area was favorable for:
Top industries hiring: Professional services, healthcare, manufacturing
Top employers: University of North Carolina-Wilmington, New Hanover Regional Medical Center, PPD
Average income: $62,280
Average home listing price: $704,465
Local hotspots: Fun in this coastal city comes in many forms, with locals often heading to the beach or browsing craft stores.
What makes Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill good for jobs?
“Biotech expansions, new innovation districts, towering residential developments and more are raising the skyline of a region referred to as North Carolina’s Research Triangle — and attracting professionals around the world for its high-tech jobs,” the report says.
The report also factored in these attributes why the location should attract job seekers:
Top industries hiring: Professional services, manufacturing, healthcare
Top employers: North Carolina State University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University
Average income: $75,130
Average home listing prices: $700,380 for Durham-Chapel Hill and $621,425 for Raleigh
Local hotspots: With renowned universities dotting the metro, libraries serve as popular hubs for residents.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment rates in June were lower in two states, higher in one state, and stable in most states, including North Carolina.
Recent data from last month shows North Carolina was one of many states that had “significant employment changes” compared to that time last year, with a 1.6% increase.
This isn’t the first time that North Carolina, specifically the Triangle area, has been nationally recognized as a great state for professionals.
Earlier this year, multiple Triangle-based companies were named among the best large and mid-size employers in America, The News & Observer previously reported.
How did LinkedIn come up with its rankings?
To compile the top 25 fastest-growing metros, LinkedIn used data on year-over-year growth based on where talent is landing, where roles are opening, and where people are moving, according to its report. Its findings focused on mid-sized cities.
You can find the full list online at linkedin.com.
This story was originally published July 18, 2025 at 1:59 PM with the headline "These NC metros are the best for new jobs in the US, report says."
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