Top IT Companies Near Me: Your Guide to Local Tech Opportunities in 2025
- Brian Mizell
- May 22
- 25 min read
In 2025, tech jobs are booming across the United States, with many cities emerging as hotspots for IT companies. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, knowing where to look for opportunities can make a big difference. This guide highlights the top places for tech jobs, focusing on cities that offer a mix of job availability, cost of living, and quality of life. If you're on the hunt for IT companies near me, this is a great place to start!
Key Takeaways
Austin, Texas, remains the top city for tech jobs, known for its vibrant culture and job growth.
San Jose and Dallas are also strong contenders, offering numerous opportunities in the tech sector.
Remote work is increasingly common, with many companies offering flexible options.
Cities like Atlanta and Huntsville are rising fast, providing affordable living and growing tech scenes.
Don’t overlook smaller cities like Raleigh and Durham, which have a lot to offer tech professionals.
1. Austin, Texas
Austin has been making waves as a major tech hub for a while now, and it's showing no signs of slowing down. The city consistently ranks high as one of the best places to kickstart an IT career. It's not just about the jobs; it's the whole vibe of the city that attracts people.
Austin's population is booming. The U.S. Census Bureau says the metro area hit about 2,295,303 people in July 2021, a 3% jump from the year before. That makes it the fastest-growing big metro area in the country. Tesla even moved its headquarters there, which says a lot.
Why Austin? Well, a few things:
Access to capital is good.
There are plenty of skilled workers.
Office space is relatively affordable (though that's changing).
WalletHub even ranked Texas as the top state to start a business because of these factors. Plus, the median tech salary in Austin is around $90,459, which feels more like $93,643 when you factor in the cost of living. Not bad, right?
But it's not just about the money or the jobs. People who work in IT in Austin talk about the work-life balance, the educational opportunities, and the city's unique culture. It's a place where you can work hard and still have a life. It's a place where being "weird" is a good thing.
Here's a quick look at how Austin stacks up against other tech hubs, according to the CompTIA Tech Town Index:
Metric | Rank |
---|---|
Tech Town Index Rank | 1 |
Location Quotient Rank (no. IT job ads) | 5 |
#IT Job Ads Rank | 8 |
Cost of Living Index Rank | 4 |
Cost of Living Adjusted Median Hourly Earnings Rank | 9 |
1-year % Job Growth Rank | 1 |
5-year % Job Growth Rank | 1 |
Looking for software companies in Austin? You've got options like Cloudflare, ActiveProspect, and BigCommerce, just to name a few. Austin is a great place to consider if you're looking for a tech job with a good quality of life.
2. San Jose, California
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, remains a hotbed for tech jobs in 2025. It's not just the big names; a ton of startups are also making waves, creating a vibrant and competitive job market. If you're looking for innovation and opportunity, San Jose should definitely be on your radar.
The city's tech scene is diverse, ranging from software development to hardware engineering.
Thinking about moving? Here's a quick look at what makes San Jose tick:
High concentration of tech companies
Strong startup ecosystem
Proximity to major universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley
San Jose's tech industry is constantly evolving, so staying updated on the latest trends and companies is key to landing your dream job. Networking and continuous learning are essential for success in this dynamic environment.
It's also worth checking out some of the top startups in San Jose to see what exciting projects they're working on. Keep an eye out for events like CloudX 2025 in nearby Santa Clara, a great place to network and learn about cloud computing innovations.
3. Dallas, Texas
Dallas is still a land of opportunity. It's been home to big names like AT&T, ExxonMobil, and Southwest Airlines for ages. Now, the tech scene is booming, making it a great spot for IT jobs for both new businesses and established ones. Back in 2021, there were over 156,000 IT job openings advertised in the area. That's a lot, even compared to bigger cities like New York City and Washington, D.C.
Why Dallas, though?
For starters, it's cheaper to run a business here. Companies have been ditching California for cities like Dallas for a few years now. Texas snagged 114 of the 265 California companies that moved their headquarters between January 2018 and June 2021.
Another reason is the access to a diverse pool of tech talent. The Dallas-Fort Worth area scores high when it comes to racial and ethnic diversity in the tech workforce, according to something called Simpson’s Diversity Index.
The Dallas-Fort Worth area is expected to see IT job growth of 2.8% in the next year and 10.5% over the next five years, adding up to nearly 203,000 jobs. IT professionals here can earn a good living. The median salary in the Dallas-Fort Worth area is around $97,431, which is a $3,300 raise from last year.
The cost of living is a bit lower than the national average, but home prices are climbing. According to Texas REALTORS, the median price for a single-family home is $354,000, compared to the national average of $346,000 in 2021.
Here are some of the top companies in Dallas:
OCC
Caterpillar
PwC
Chewy
Opendoor
Crunchyroll
Apex Fintech Solutions
Revantage, a Blackstone Portfolio company
4. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta has been steadily growing as a major IT hub. It first appeared on the Tech Town Index in 2018 at number 9. The city was number 8 in both 2019 and 2020, showing the progress the region was making. Now, the Atlanta metro area is in the top five.
Atlanta is a thriving business center. Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, UPS, and The Home Depot are all headquartered here. While these aren't tech companies, every large organization needs IT professionals. In 2021, there were 111,225 open IT jobs in the Atlanta metro area.
Atlanta leaders are actively working to attract tech companies and talent. They're using the entrepreneurial talent from schools like Georgia Tech, the University of Alabama, Auburn, the University of Georgia, Vanderbilt, Emory, and historically Black colleges and universities like Morehouse, Spelman, and Xavier. Atlanta also scores high in race and ethnicity diversity.
More than $7.1 billion has been invested in Atlanta-area tech companies in the past five years. This long-term plan aims to make Atlanta a major source of economic return for venture capital and investment. IT professionals in Atlanta earn a median salary of $95,788, and the cost of living is 4% below the national average. Atlanta is rising as a tech hub.
Atlanta's growth in the tech sector is fueled by a combination of factors, including a strong talent pool, significant investment, and a relatively low cost of living. This makes it an attractive location for both companies and IT professionals.
Here's a quick look at why Atlanta is a great place for IT:
Strong job market
Growing tech scene
Relatively affordable cost of living
Atlanta is also home to events like TechCon 365 Atlanta, which is a great opportunity to learn about the latest trends in the industry. Atlanta is one of the best cities for IT.
Atlanta is a great place for IT professionals. The city offers a lot of opportunities and a good quality of life. The city is also home to many fintech honorees.
5. Huntsville, Alabama
Huntsville, also known as the Rocket City, has been steadily climbing the ranks as a great place for IT professionals. It jumped to number 5 this year, a well-deserved spot. While it's known for military defense and aerospace, Huntsville now attracts all sorts of IT talent.
In 2021, there were over 14,000 tech jobs available, and that number is expected to keep growing. Companies are expanding or moving to Huntsville, creating even more opportunities. These projects are bringing hundreds of new jobs and millions in investment to the area. Huntsville's innovation is being recognized on a global scale.
Huntsville is growing, and its infrastructure is keeping up. A new mixed-use development is planned, showing that the city is ready to accommodate families and those who want to put down roots.
IT pros in Huntsville can expect a good quality of life, with a median salary around $98,251. That money goes pretty far in this area.
Huntsville is a great place for IT professionals looking for a growing job market and a good quality of life. The city's focus on technology and its welcoming atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking new opportunities.
6. Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte, North Carolina, a city known for its financial prowess, is making significant strides in the tech industry. It might not have always been seen as a tech hub, but with the increasing need for technical skills across various sectors, Charlotte's tech scene is definitely on the rise. The city is becoming a great place to find IT companies.
In the past year, Charlotte had over 53,000 open tech positions advertised. The number of IT jobs is expected to keep growing, with a projected increase of 2.5% in the next year and 8.8% in the next five years. That's a lot of opportunity!
Charlotte's leaders in fintech and health tech are working together to grow the industry even more. They're launching the Carolina Fintech Hub (CFH) and partnering with MassChallenge to create The Meta Lab. This initiative aims to find and connect startups and innovators with companies that need solutions, fostering innovation and reinvestment in the area.
Charlotte produces over 6,000 IT professionals each year, making it an attractive location for both IT companies and startups. What's really cool is that around 37% of IT company CEOs here are women. That's some great representation!
Living in Charlotte offers a good quality of life. IT professionals can expect a median salary of $93,600, and the cost of living is about 2% lower than the national average. Plus, North Carolina has a flat income tax rate, low property taxes, and sales taxes that are close to the national average, which means your money can go further.
Here's a quick look at how Charlotte stacks up against other tech hubs:
City | 2025 Rank |
---|---|
Huntsville, AL | 5 |
Charlotte, NC | 6 |
Raleigh, NC | 7 |
San Francisco, CA | 8 |
Seattle, WA | 9 |
Charlotte is definitely a city to watch for IT opportunities in 2025. The city's growing tech scene, combined with a reasonable cost of living, makes it an appealing place for IT professionals.
7. Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh has consistently ranked high on the Tech Town Index, holding the 2nd position in 2018 and 2019, and 3rd in 2020. Its current 7th position might seem surprising, especially with Apple's significant investments in the Research Triangle Park. Apple plans to invest over $1 billion in North Carolina, creating a new campus and engineering hub in Raleigh, which is expected to generate 3,000 jobs in software engineering, AI, and machine learning. They're also setting up a $100 million fund to support local schools and community programs.
Raleigh is actively collaborating with universities, nonprofits, and the private sector to develop a tech-savvy workforce. The city's economic development office is exploring ways to help the existing workforce gain the skills needed to succeed in the local economy. In the past year, Raleigh advertised over 41,000 tech jobs, with more than 11,000 specifically for software developers and engineers. Experts predict that the total number of tech jobs will reach approximately 44,500 by 2026.
An IT professional in Raleigh can expect a median salary of around $95,786. While housing costs can be high, the overall cost of living is lower compared to other Carolina metro areas. Raleigh is considered a major IT hub in the United States.
Perhaps Raleigh's slight drop in rankings is due to other cities like Atlanta and Huntsville improving their tech scenes. Regardless, Raleigh remains a strong contender in the tech industry.
Raleigh is committed to fostering economic infrastructure development. When you nurture a culture of innovation, ideas are born.
Here are some reasons to consider Raleigh:
Growing job market
Relatively affordable cost of living
Strong community and educational support
For those interested in IT services companies in Raleigh, there are many options to explore.
8. San Francisco, California
San Francisco remains a tech powerhouse, no surprise there. It's still a major hub for both established giants and innovative startups. The cost of living is high, yeah, but so are the opportunities. You'll find a ton of companies here, from software to biotech, all vying for talent. It's a competitive market, but if you've got the skills, San Francisco is the place to be.
The city is a hotbed for innovation and attracts top talent from around the globe.
Here's a quick look at some upcoming events in the area:
Product-Led Summit San Francisco: September 3-4, 2025
Revenue Operations Summit San Francisco: September 3-4, 2025
Dev Innovation Summit 2025: September 3-5, 2025 (Santa Clara, CA)
San Francisco's tech scene is constantly evolving. Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies is key to success in this competitive market. Continuous learning and networking are essential for career growth.
San Francisco is home to many companies, including those focused on top 15 tech companies in the area. These companies are always looking for new talent to help them grow and innovate. The city also hosts numerous tech conferences and meetups, providing ample opportunities for networking and learning.
9. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is still a major player in the tech world, and it's not showing signs of slowing down. Even with everything that's happened in the last few years, Seattle continues to attract and keep tech companies and talented people. It's earned its spot as one of the best cities for tech jobs, and for good reason.
One of the big reasons Seattle is doing so well is that there's still room to grow. While downtown Seattle is pretty full, there's plenty of space for companies to expand on the Eastside. You've got businesses creating their own mini-campuses, and new developments like Bellevue’s Spring District are drawing in even more companies. For example, Microsoft is adding a bunch of buildings and employees to its headquarters in Redmond, and Amazon is planning to add a ton of workers in Bellevue. All of this contributes to the city's vibrant tech ecosystem.
Another thing that's helping Seattle is its strong startup scene. Tech companies in the Pacific Northwest have raised a lot of money, more than double the previous year. Venture capital activity is also on track to beat last year's record. All of this means more success and more "unicorns" – private companies valued at over $1 billion. The Seattle area has a bunch of these unicorns now, which is a big change from just a few years ago.
All that buzz attracts more talent. There have been a ton of open tech positions advertised in the area, and tech jobs are expected to keep growing. Even though Seattle isn't cheap, employers seem to know that and pay IT pros pretty well. When you consider the cost of living, Seattle actually ranks high for compensation.
Living in Seattle has perks that go beyond money. There are tons of outdoor activities to do, like visiting Mount Rainier National Park, exploring the Puget Sound, or hiking in the Olympic National Park. If you like being outside, Seattle has a lot to offer.
Here's a quick look at why Seattle is still a great place for tech:
Room to grow on the Eastside
Strong startup scene with lots of funding
High compensation for IT professionals
And here's a table showing the expected job growth:
Year | Expected Job Growth |
---|---|
Next Year | 2.5% |
By 2026 | 8.7% |
10. Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., isn't just about politics; it's a growing tech hub. The area offers a ton of opportunities, with around 191,013 tech jobs up for grabs. It's definitely one of the best tech cities in the U.S.
Government jobs are huge here, naturally. Companies like Leidos, General Dynamics, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Northrop Grumman are always looking for engineers. A large chunk of the job postings are for software developers, cybersecurity engineers, systems engineers, and network engineers.
But it's not all government work. Amazon is building a big headquarters just across the river in Arlington, Virginia, which means even more jobs. The job market is expected to keep growing, with a predicted increase of 6.3% over the next few years. Plus, the median salary for IT folks is pretty good, sitting around $113,330.
Another cool thing about D.C. is its diversity. The area is one of the most diverse when it comes to race and ethnicity in the tech workforce. The city is working hard to become the top spot for tech inclusion, aiming to create 5,000 new tech jobs for underrepresented workers and 500 new tech businesses founded by underrepresented entrepreneurs. If you're looking for startups in Washington, DC, there are many to choose from.
Living and working in the D.C. area means you're in a place that values diversity and is actively working to create more opportunities for everyone. It's a city where you can find a good job and be part of a community that's pushing for inclusion.
11. New York City, New York
New York City is making a splash in the tech scene! It's pretty cool to see the Big Apple becoming a major tech hub. It's not just about finance and media anymore; tech is moving in big time.
In 2021, there were over 200,000 open tech jobs in the NYC area. That's a lot! And it's expected to keep growing. Companies like Google, Facebook, Apple, Amazon, and TikTok are expanding their presence here. This growth is a big deal for IT professionals.
But it's not just the big companies. NYC has a ton of startups too – over 9,000! This mix of established companies and startups makes NYC a really exciting place for tech. Of course, living in NYC can be expensive. But if you're looking for tech opportunities, it's definitely worth considering. You can find many top tech companies in the area.
Working in New York City is a unique experience. The energy, the diversity, and the sheer number of opportunities make it a great place to build a career. It's fast-paced and competitive, but also incredibly rewarding.
12. Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore is making moves in the tech world! It jumped up the ranks to number 12, and it's not hard to see why. With Johns Hopkins University nearby, it's always been a hub for healthcare and bioscience. Companies like Anthem Blue Cross are backing that up, but it's expanding into other tech areas too.
Baltimore is becoming a clean tech hotspot. There's a lot of innovation happening in clean energy and sustainable products. Cybersecurity is also big, thanks to the area's proximity to federal cyber resources. Baltimore IT companies are finding success in cybersecurity, digital health records, and even video games.
All this growth means more jobs. In 2021, there were almost 49,000 IT positions, and they're expecting that number to hit 84,000 by 2026. That's a pretty big jump! Most of the jobs are for software developers and engineers.
IT pros in Baltimore can expect a decent salary, around $105,000. But, the cost of living is a bit high, about 31% higher than the national average.
A new startup organization is trying to help tech entrepreneurs in Baltimore. They want to provide mentorship, networking, and resources to people who want to start their companies there. They're especially focused on startups that are using tech to improve equity.
Growing tech sector
Strong cybersecurity presence
Emerging clean tech hub
13. Durham-Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Durham-Chapel Hill holds steady as a great spot for tech, thanks to its access to educated talent from Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill. These universities are even launching a startup hub together, offering advisors and a talent network.
With resources like that, it's no surprise that the Research Triangle Park is booming. GeneCentric Therapeutics, a cancer testing company based on UNC-Chapel Hill tech, raised millions and partnered with Labcorp. The area is even called "the Startup Capital of the South" by CNBC, thanks to Durham's focus on economic growth. Over 300 startups call downtown Durham home.
All that innovation attracts tech talent. In 2021, there were almost 17,000 IT job openings in the Durham-Chapel Hill area, and that number is expected to grow to almost 25,000 in the next few years. IT pros here earn a median salary of around $94,000, which is close to the national average, and the cost of living is about the same too. Google Cloud is also building an engineering hub in Durham, adding over 1,000 jobs, citing the area's talent pool as the main reason.
Durham-Chapel Hill is doing something right, fostering a culture of innovation and attracting major players in the tech industry. The combination of academic resources, a supportive business environment, and a growing job market makes it an attractive location for both companies and tech professionals.
Here's a quick look at how Durham-Chapel Hill has ranked over the years:
Year | Rank |
---|---|
2018 | 14 |
2019 | 13 |
2020 | 9 |
2021 | 10 |
2022 | 11 |
2023 | 15 |
2024 | 13 |
2025 | 15 |
Here are some reasons why Durham-Chapel Hill is a great place for IT:
Access to top universities
Growing startup scene
Increasing number of IT jobs
14. Lansing, Michigan
Lansing might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of tech hubs, but don't count it out! It's got a surprisingly active IT scene, especially considering its size. You'll find a mix of established companies and smaller startups, creating a diverse range of opportunities for tech professionals.
Lansing is home to Michigan State University, which is a huge asset. The university pumps out talented graduates every year, many of whom are eager to stay in the area and contribute to the local tech industry. This creates a steady stream of fresh talent, which is always a plus for companies looking to grow.
The cost of living in Lansing is also relatively low compared to other tech hubs, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their dollar further. You can find affordable housing and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. Plus, the city has a friendly, community-oriented vibe that's hard to resist.
Lansing's tech scene is definitely on the rise. While it may not have the same level of buzz as Austin or San Francisco, it offers a unique blend of opportunity, affordability, and quality of life. It's a great place to build a career in IT without getting lost in the shuffle.
Here are a few reasons why Lansing is worth considering:
Growing tech sector with diverse opportunities
Affordable cost of living
Strong talent pipeline from Michigan State University
Community-oriented atmosphere
If you're looking for a tech scene that's a little off the beaten path, Lansing might just be the perfect fit. You can find a list of top IT services companies in Michigan to start your search.
15. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs is making a name for itself as a growing tech hub. With a focus on aerospace, defense, healthcare, and cybersecurity, the city is attracting more IT jobs. It's estimated that tech jobs will grow by another 5% in the next five years. The city is working hard to grow its tech ecosystem.
Colorado Springs is becoming a cybersecurity center. There are over 125 cybersecurity firms in the area. A local group launched Cyber Mountain to position the region as the main spot for cybersecurity in space operations. The city has a strong base to support this growth with over 250 aerospace and defense companies. These companies employ 111,000 professionals and contribute $7 billion to the local economy each year.
Local IT pros earn a median salary of $98,572. The cost of living is about 7% higher than the national average. Colorado Springs was named the "most confident workforce in the nation" by a LinkedIn survey. This is based on how workers feel about job security, their financial situation, and the job outlook. Colorado Springs is intentionally growing a tech ecosystem and making a name for itself as one of the best cities for IT jobs in the United States.
Colorado Springs is a great place to live and work. The city has a lot to offer, including a growing tech industry, a strong economy, and a high quality of life. It's a great place to start or grow your career in IT. Plus, the mountains are right there for weekend adventures.
Here are some of the prominent tech companies based in Colorado Springs, including BombBomb, Formstack, Altia, Bold Technologies, BurstIQ, WOW!, and Tek Experts.
Here are some reasons to consider Colorado Springs:
Growing tech industry
Strong economy
High quality of life
16. Trenton, New Jersey
Trenton, NJ, and its surrounding areas are making a comeback as a tech hub. Back in 2020, the Trenton area barely made the list, but things have changed. In 2021, the area saw a surge in tech jobs, jumping up the ranks.
New Jersey has a lot going for it. The state is a leader in broadband connectivity and boasts some of the fastest download speeds. Plus, being home to Princeton University means there's a high concentration of scientists and engineers. About 42% of the workforce has a bachelor's degree or higher, which is great for companies looking for talent. The state Department of Labor and Workforce Development projects that STEM jobs will continue to grow. The INC-NJ platform helps connect emerging companies with funding opportunities.
New Jersey is strategically targeting entrepreneurs in areas like healthcare, telecom, AI, robotics, and fintech. The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) supports innovation through programs like the Entrepreneur Loan Guarantee Program, which helps tech companies grow without giving up equity.
Here are a few reasons why Trenton is becoming a tech hotspot:
Strong talent pool thanks to local universities.
Strategic initiatives to support tech growth.
Good broadband connectivity and download speeds.
17. Boulder, Colorado
Boulder, Colorado, a vibrant college town, is home to the University of Colorado and boasts a population nearing 330,000. It's recognized as a leading Colorado metro area for tech. Fueled by strong entrepreneurship and innovation, Boulder's high-tech ecosystem thrives with startups and Fortune 500 companies alike.
In 2021, the Boulder area advertised over 10,000 open tech positions, primarily for software developers and engineers. Projections estimate an 8.6% growth in IT jobs over the next five years. The city is a hub for data storage, software, integrated systems, and mobile application development. While giants like Google and Twitter maintain a presence, Colorado has become a popular spot for California tech companies to establish secondary offices. The Boulder Economic Council also highlights aerospace, bioscience, and clean tech as key industries.
One area where Boulder really shines is artificial intelligence (AI). Studies show Boulder as an early leader in AI, with significant investment in AI research and development. The city also boasts a high number of AI-related patents and companies per capita. Boulder even surpassed the Bay Area in federal AI contracts per capita, with companies like Oracle, Amazon, Soundhound, and Apple driving innovation. Check out the local tech companies that call Boulder home.
Local IT pros in Boulder can earn a median salary of around $101,000. However, the cost of living is about 17% higher than the national average, and land prices are high due to efforts to preserve open spaces. For example, the median home listing is nearly $900,000, and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is over $2,400. But what's the price for sunshine 245 days a year and 71 inches of fresh powder in one of the best places for tech jobs?
Living in Boulder is a unique experience. The combination of a strong tech industry, access to outdoor activities, and a focus on sustainability creates a desirable lifestyle. While the cost of living can be a challenge, many find the benefits outweigh the financial burden.
18. Hartford, Connecticut
Hartford is making its debut on the Tech Town Index, and it seems the pandemic might have something to do with it. With many people leaving big cities, Hartford became an attractive option for IT professionals.
According to the CT Tech Council, Connecticut has a growing tech sector. This includes global media brands like ESPN, startups from Yale, and companies meeting the demand for cybersecurity, fintech, and health IT services. Hartford is definitely on the upswing.
In 2021, the Hartford area had over 21,000 open tech jobs. A large portion of these were for software developers, IT project managers, and network engineers. Companies like Cigna, Travelers, Accenture, Deloitte, and CVS Health are major employers. Infosys also plans to add 1,000 jobs in the area.
The number of IT jobs is expected to increase by 3.5% in the next five years, potentially reaching 26,000 jobs by 2026.
IT professionals in Hartford earn a median salary that helps offset the cost of living. If you're looking for IT services companies, there are many to choose from.
Here's a quick look at some key factors:
Growing tech sector with diverse opportunities
Increasing number of IT jobs
Presence of major companies and planned expansions
19. Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of tech hubs, but this Iowa city is quietly making a name for itself. It wasn't even on the Tech Town Index until 2018, when it ranked 12th. Now, it's back at number 18. Known as an insurance capital, Des Moines has a growing tech scene fueled by a strong entrepreneurial spirit and support from local organizations. The city also benefits from its proximity to Iowa State University, which provides a steady stream of talent.
Iowa State University in Ames is only about 30 minutes away, and the tech community definitely benefits from that talent pool. The ISU Startup Factory is one way people can get investment for their businesses. These sessions focus on the basics of building a startup. Des Moines also has accelerators like the Global Insurance Accelerator that partner with local entrepreneurs to provide resources and incubators.
All this activity leads to jobs. In the past year, the Des Moines area had over 15,000 open tech positions. About a third of those were for software developers and engineers and tech support. Companies in insurance, finance, animal and plant genetics, precision agriculture, manufacturing, and digital media are all here. With so much opportunity, tech jobs are expected to grow. Local IT pros earn a median salary that matches the cost of living. Plus, the cost of doing business is below the national average. Des Moines might just be the next big tech city.
Des Moines is definitely a place to watch if you're looking for a tech career with a lower cost of living and a supportive community. It's not as flashy as some of the bigger names on this list, but it offers a solid foundation for growth and opportunity.
20. Tallahassee, Florida
Tallahassee is making a name for itself! It's not just the state capital; it's becoming a spot for tech growth. There's a real push from local universities and entrepreneurs to build a strong business environment. It's still got some ways to go, but it's got potential.
The city is investing in innovation, hoping to attract more tech companies. While capital investment has been a challenge, Tallahassee's location and growing population make it an attractive place for tech businesses.
Here's what's interesting about Tallahassee:
The city is working hard to improve its capital landscape to attract more startups.
The area has a growing population and a good location, making it attractive to tech companies.
There were over 7,600 tech job postings last year, and that number is expected to grow.
While the median wage for IT pros is around $59,703, with a cost of living about average, there are still great tech positions available. It's a place to watch as it develops its tech scene.
21. Miami, Florida
Miami is making waves in the tech world! It's not just beaches and sunshine; there's a growing tech scene here. I've been keeping an eye on it, and it's pretty impressive how quickly things are developing. Miami is now ranked 5th in the U.S. for venture capital investments.
Here's why Miami is becoming a tech hotspot:
Growing number of startups
Increasing investment in tech companies
A diverse and vibrant community
Miami's transformation into a tech hub is driven by its unique blend of culture, business incentives, and a strategic location that connects North and South America. This combination is attracting both talent and capital, setting the stage for continued growth and innovation in the region.
Some of the big players in Miami's tech scene include Ironhack and Citadel Securities. These companies are helping to drive innovation and create job opportunities. If you're looking for tech opportunities, Miami is definitely a place to consider. It's exciting to see how the city is evolving and becoming a major player in the tech industry. You can even attend TECHSPO Miami to learn more!
22. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is making a name for itself in the tech world. It's not quite Silicon Valley, but it's definitely on the rise. I've noticed more and more tech companies popping up, and the job market seems to be getting better all the time. It's a good place to be if you're looking for tech opportunities without the crazy cost of living you see in California.
Phoenix is becoming a solid option for IT professionals. The city offers a blend of opportunity and affordability that's attracting both companies and talent. It's not just about the weather (though that's a plus for many); it's about the growing ecosystem and the potential for career growth.
Here's a quick look at why Phoenix is gaining traction:
Lower cost of living compared to other tech hubs.
Increasing number of tech companies establishing a presence.
Growing pool of skilled workers.
Phoenix is definitely a city to watch. It might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of tech, but it's quietly building a strong foundation. The combination of affordability and opportunity is a big draw, and I think we'll see even more growth in the coming years.
If you're looking for hardware companies in the area, there are some notable names to consider. Phoenix is becoming a hub for more than just software; hardware is also making a strong showing.
23. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is making a name for itself beyond country music. It's becoming a real player in the tech world. You've got big names like Oracle and Amazon setting up shop, which is a good sign. The city's got a growing tech scene, and it's attracting talent from all over. It's not just about the music anymore; it's about innovation and opportunity.
Nashville's tech economy is booming, and it's not just because of the big companies moving in. There's a real sense of community and collaboration among the startups and smaller tech firms. It's a place where people are excited to build something new, and that energy is contagious.
Here's why Nashville is becoming a tech hotspot:
Lower cost of living compared to other major tech hubs.
A growing pool of skilled tech workers.
A supportive ecosystem for startups.
Nashville is also hosting TECHSPO Nashville this year, which is a great opportunity to network and learn about the latest trends in technology. It's a sign that the city is serious about becoming a major tech hub. The city's tech economy is currently valued at $7.5 billion.
Nashville's tech scene is definitely one to watch. It's got the right ingredients for continued growth and success. It's a city that's embracing technology and innovation, and it's creating opportunities for people from all walks of life. If you're looking for a place to start or grow your tech career, Nashville might just be the place for you. It's a city on the rise, and it's got a lot to offer.
24. Portland, Oregon
Portland is making a name for itself as a tech hub, and it's not just about the coffee and craft breweries (though those are definitely a plus!). The city's tech scene is growing, offering a mix of established companies and exciting startups. It's a place where you can find opportunities without the crazy cost of living you see in some other West Coast cities.
Portland's got a vibe that's different. It's a bit more laid-back, a bit more focused on work-life balance, and that's attracting a lot of tech talent. Plus, the city is investing in its tech infrastructure, which is helping to fuel growth. The city is becoming a great place to find tech jobs.
Here are a few reasons why Portland is becoming a tech hotspot:
Lower cost of living compared to San Francisco or Seattle.
A strong sense of community and collaboration.
Access to outdoor activities and a great quality of life.
Portland's tech scene is still evolving, but it's definitely one to watch. The city's unique culture and growing economy make it an attractive place for tech companies and professionals alike.
One company to note is Portland Internetworks. They provide IT support services and even offer free breakfast to their employees. It's these kinds of perks that make Portland a great place to work.
25. Chicago, Illinois and more
Chicago's tech scene is buzzing, and it's not just about the big names you already know. The city is a hub for innovation across various sectors. While we've highlighted some key cities, Chicago deserves its own spotlight, along with a nod to other emerging tech hubs.
Chicago boasts a diverse range of IT companies, from established corporations to innovative startups. Companies like Caterpillar, Thoughtworks, and Wintrust Financial Corporation contribute significantly to the city's tech landscape. The Kraft Heinz Company, Rightpoint, OCC, CNA, and Echo Global are also major players, offering a wide array of tech opportunities.
But the story doesn't end there. Keep an eye on these other cities that are making waves in the tech world:
Minneapolis, Minnesota: A growing hub for med-tech and fintech companies.
Denver, Colorado: With a strong aerospace industry and a rising number of tech startups, Denver is becoming a major tech center.
Salt Lake City, Utah: Known as "Silicon Slopes," this area is attracting tech talent and investment.
These cities, and many others, are contributing to a dynamic and evolving IT landscape. As technology continues to advance, expect to see even more cities emerge as key players in the industry.
It's an exciting time to be in tech, with opportunities popping up in unexpected places. Keep exploring, and you might just find your dream job in one of these up-and-coming tech hubs.
Chicago, Illinois, is a vibrant city full of life and excitement. From its stunning skyline to its rich history, there's so much to explore. Whether you're interested in art, food, or sports, Chicago has something for everyone. Don't miss out on the fun! Visit our website to learn more about what this amazing city has to offer and plan your next adventure today!
Wrapping It Up: Your Local Tech Landscape
So, there you have it. The tech scene in your area is buzzing with opportunities, and it’s only getting better. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to climb the ladder, there’s a spot for you in this growing field. From established companies to fresh startups, the options are endless. Plus, with remote work becoming more common, you can find a job that fits your lifestyle. Keep an eye on the trends, stay connected with local networks, and don’t hesitate to reach out to companies that catch your interest. The future is bright for tech professionals, so get out there and seize those opportunities!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best cities for IT jobs in 2025?
Some of the top cities for IT jobs in 2025 include Austin, Texas, San Jose, California, and Dallas, Texas.
How can I find tech job opportunities near me?
You can look for tech job opportunities by checking online job boards, company websites, and local job fairs.
What types of tech jobs are in demand?
In-demand tech jobs include software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity experts.
Are there remote tech jobs available?
Yes, many tech jobs offer remote work options, allowing you to work from home or anywhere.
What factors should I consider when choosing a tech city?
Consider the cost of living, job availability, salary levels, and quality of life when choosing a tech city.
How has the pandemic affected tech job availability?
The pandemic has increased the demand for tech jobs as more companies shift to digital operations and remote work.