Whether you are looking to transition into a new field or you’re just starting your search, getting that first job can sometimes be challenging. Applying with little to no experience can put you at a disadvantage when compared to other candidates, even if your skills and education might otherwise qualify you, because of the generally competitive nature of entry-level jobs.
So where will your resume get you the farthest? We looked at cities that had the highest number of entry level jobs with the lowest number of applications, as well as a low unemployment rate, to determine which cities are the best for entry level jobs right now.
1. Portland-South Portland-Biddeford, ME
Portland’s proximity to Boston and its position as Maine’s largest port city has encouraged a thriving economy in the metro area. With business tourism and the largest population in Maine, Portland’s service economy has experienced tremendous growth, providing many entry level opportunities in the financial, hospitality, and customer service industries as well as many others.
Rate of Competition: 3.5
Unemployment: 3.2
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
- Data Entry Clerk
- Customer Service Representative
- Entry Level Manager
- Sales Associate
- Purchasing Specialist
2. Fargo, ND-MN
Fargo is a regional economic hub and the center of business activity in North Dakota. Its strong manufacturing, healthcare, and financial presence creates a range of entry level positions, and a currently low unemployment rate means very little competition for that first job.
Rate of Competition: 5
Unemployment: 2.4
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
3. Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA-IL
The Davenport metro area’s focus on job creation has resulted in a 3.3% decrease in the unemployment rate over the last six years. A low cost of living and consistent need for workers skilled in service and support makes this Quad city a surprisingly ideal spot for job seekers looking to get their start or gain experience.
Rate of Competition: 6.1
Unemployment: 5.1
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
- Administrative Assistant
- Part-Time Artist Instructor’s Assistant
- Product Demonstrator
- Tutor Coordinator
- Restaurant Manager
4. Lincoln, NE
Nebraska’s capital city has historically held one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is the largest employer in the area, but entry level talent can find potential opportunities with a low percentage of competition in a variety of industries.
Rate of Competition: 5.7
Unemployment: 2.1
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
As a hub for the high-tech and financial industries in the region, Santa Rosa has attracted a large population rapidly. The city offers entry level opportunities in both its growing professional sectors and the service industries that support them.
Rate of Competition: 8.2
Unemployment: 4.6
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
- Bilingual Receptionist
- Teller
- Customer Support/Sales Representative
- Entry Level Management Trainee
- Marketing Assistant
Cedar Rapids’ remarkably low unemployment rate means little competition for open positions across its top industries The city is home to a large manufacturing sector and many museums, libraries and theatres.
Rate of Competition: 4.7
Unemployment: 3.7
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
- Data Entry Clerk
- Promotions Assistant
- Customer Support Representative
- Entry Level Retail Manager
- Part Time Student Mentor
7. Madison, WI
Madison boasts a low unemployment rate due to a constant stream of talent from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and these skilled workers have attracted a strong high-tech and healthcare base to the area. Its diversified economy has created entry level positions to support both the businesses and the population influx that has resulted from it.
Rate of Competition: 5.6
Unemployment: 2.9
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
- Receptionist
- Assistant Project Manager
- Assistant General Manager
- Human Resources Assistant
- Sales Representative
8. Lawrence, KS
An industrial manufacturing base supports Lawrence’s financial sector, but the city boasts a diversified economy comprised of activity in the education science, and agricultural industries.
Rate of Competition: 6.8
Unemployment: 3.6
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
- Call Center Customer Service Representative
- Restaurant Assistant Manager
- Retail Associate
- Event Assistant
- Marketing Sales Representative
9. Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
A low cost of business enables financial services and publishing to dominate Des Moine’s economy, and provide entry level opportunities in the fields of insurance, sales, customer service, and marketing. In addition to limited competition for available roles, the city is also an attractive destination because of its affordable cost of living and low crime rate.
Rate of Competition: 6.2
Unemployment: 4.2
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
- Financial Sales Assistant
- Customer Care Associate
- Brand Ambassador
- Facilities Assistant
- Restaurant Manager
10. Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI
As the second largest economic hub in the Midwest and an emerging center for technology, Minneapolis offers opportunities in a wide variety of industries including insurance, finance, education, graphic design, and high-tech. The city maintains a low rate of both job competition and unemployment, even with a relatively large population.
Rate of Competition: 7.6
Unemployment: 3.7
Top Entry Level Jobs Right Now:
