Like all professions, the marketing world is in the middle of an upheaval, in large part because of the effects of digital, which has forced marketers to rethink traditional practices and devise new strategies to reach consumers. Still, if the game is changing, the fundamentals still apply. Nor is marketing seeing the kinds of starkly negative effects endemic to other fields. Across the U.S., marketing, advertising, and promotional managers can expect 10% employment growth through 2024, faster than the national average. Sales occupations, in general, are steady at about 5-7% growth. Compensation levels also remain steady and competitive, with managers earning above $100k on average.
The below rankings list the best cities in the country for marketing professionals, according to metrics based on the number of available opportunities by population and the percentage of those jobs that paid in the top two-fifths of salary brackets. California is the most-represented state, anchored by excellent marketing jobs throughout the Bay Area — San Fransisco, Oakland, Fremont, San Jose — and in Southern California. Texas comes in second, anchored by the Dallas-Forth Worth Metroplex’s high concentration of corporate headquarters (plus some of the region’s best ad agencies). Many of the cities, perhaps predictably, are also among the country’s most expensive, but places like Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, Philadelphia, Raleigh, and Denver offer both affordable living and premier career prospects. Other factors profiled include cultural attractions and overall economic benefits.
Methodology:
Marketing Job Openings (1/2): the total number of full-time marketing job openings within 25 miles.
Job Earnings (1/2): the number of marketing positions garnering salaries in the top 2 of 5 bins. Adjusted for cost of living and differences in compensation levels by city.
Data Source: Indeed.com
1.
Oakland, California
With a population of about 420,000, Oakland ranks first on our list, offering more than 9,400 full-time marketing jobs at some of the most competitive salaries in the country: over 2,000 employees earn over $110,000 per year, and the average marketing manager salary is $105,249. Still, positions are spread evenly across the spectrum, and several thousand entry-level and mid-tier opportunities are available, as well. Major corporations are in the area – including Kaiser Permanente, Clorox, Dreyer’s, and Cost Plus World Markets – and recently more tech companies are moving into Oakland from the other side of the bay. (Ask.com and Pandora are already there, and Uber moves into new offices in 2017.)
San Francisco’s rapid expansion has benefited the city, as well. A younger, upstart class of entrepreneurs, creatives, academics, and activists have helped to create a vibrant and modern community, which struggled to establish itself for much of the mid-to-late 20th century. Recently, Wealth Management ranked the area 5th for for tech entrepreneurs by total venture capital investment; it’s been ranked 2nd among best cities to start a career, and 4th in total professional opportunities. Oakland is also the fifth-busiest port in the United States, handling 99% of all containerized goods in Northern California. Beyond its economic outlook, Oakland has one of the highest concentrations of artists and in the country and a diverse foodie scene, with French, Italian, Spanish, Asian, Latino, Caribbean, and other cuisines that complement the city’s eclectic vibe. Other attractions include museums, parks, theaters, and more. UC Berkeley is just around the corner.
2
San Francisco, California
San Francisco ties for second. With a population just over 860,000, the city offers the seventh-most marketing jobs on our list, more than half of which make over $60,000 a year. In general, San Fransisco marketing workers are among the highest paid in the country: 20% make six-figures; 65% are among the top two-fifths of earners; and marketing managers earn a $110,000 salary on average. Still, there’s room for entry-level and mid-tier positions, too. Of course, some of the largest, most visible companies in the world call San Fransisco headquarters: Salesforce, Dropbox, Airbnb, Wells Fargo, McKesson, Twitter, Del Monte Foods, Charles Schwab, and more, across a wide range of industries. Also of note to marketing professionals, ad agencies like Goodby, Silverstein & Partners; Landor Associates, and AKQA. When we expand to include the surrounding Bay Area, obviously opportunities skyrocket.
That said, contrary to popular opinion, there’s more to San Fran than tech alone. The largest employer in the city is government, and tourism remains a major business, making up 14% of the city’s workforce. (For perspective, more than 18 million visited in 2014, bringing in $10.67 billion.) Throughout its history, San Fransisco has been famous for its stunning natural beauty, distinct architecture, and vibrant culture, with lively music, food, and arts scenes. And despite the city’s notorious cost of living, it remains ranked among the best in America for quality of living.
2
New York, New York
New York ties San Fransisco as number two on the list. For a city of more than 8.5 million, there are, appropriately, a large number marketing jobs available — more than 17,000 full-time. Plenty of jobs are available on an entry – to mid-level pay grade, but 69% are in the top two-fifths of earners, with the average marketing manager making $108,802 per year. It goes without saying, but career options are across the board. Major corporations are headquartered in the city – in finance, technology, media, healthcare, telecommunications, and more — and Madison Avenue is famous for its premier advertising agencies (though many of these have since moved throughout New York); companies include Interpublic Group, Omnicom Group, Blue Fountain Media, R/GA, AKQA, Droga5, 360i, DDB Worldwide, Deutsch, Horizon Media, Huge, McCann Erickson, Ogilvy & Mather, and Young & Rubicam.
With a $1.33 trillion gross metropolitan product in 2012 — the largest in the country, plus 12 countries combined — New York’s business chops are unquestioned. Of course, neither are its well-documented expenses: the cost of living index stands at 164.7. Still, what you’ll forfeit in rent, food, and the rest, you’ll make up for in unparalleled opportunities, professional and otherwise (which may appeal to entry and mid-level workers). Build up a bullet-proof portfolio, all while within a subway ride of world class restaurants from every cuisine imaginable; art, history, and culture museums; theaters big and small; and some of the most famous parks in the country.
4
Fremont, California
At a population of around 230,000, Freemont has nearly 7,500 marketing jobs available within a 25-mile radius of the city, and is the third Northern Californian city to make the cut thus far. 63% of positions offer salaries in the top two-fifths tier, and over 3,000 are considered mid-level. Managing positions average $108,821 per year, one of the highest levels in the United States. Most important, many openings are available at world-class companies: Facebook, Apple, Google, Super Micro Computer, Oracle, Genentech, Insight Wealth Strategies, Stanford University, Intel, Abbott, Marketo, and more.
While Fremont’s proximity to the Bay Area has increased the cost of living (indexed at 145, with a median rent of about $1,700), its location has also attracted more businesses into the city and expanded the economy. The Tesla Factory employs approximately 6,000 people, making it the largest job provider, in front of Kaiser Permanente, Western Digital, Lam Research Corporation, Boston Scientific, and the city government and education system. Beyond its economy, Freemont offers top-notch culture and recreation opportunities, including a 450-acre central park, wildlife refuge, Mission Peak Regional Preserve, and more. Ohlone College, The University of Phoenix Bay Area Campus, and Northwestern Polytechnic University all lie within the city limits.
5
Newark, New Jersey
Newark has over 17,500 full-time marketing jobs, making it second overall on our list for total jobs available. Many of these are also well-paying: about 1,600 offer between $60k and $75k per year; 1,300 are in the $75k to $90k bracket. More than 1,700 positions pay six-figure salaries, and the average pay for marketing managers is $105,330. With a population of just over 280,000, Newark is one of the country’s major hubs for transportation and logistics, in large part because of its proximity to New York City and as a central connector through the Northeast Corridor. Additional industries include finance, healthcare, government, and the third-largest insurance center in the US; Prudential Financial, Mutual Benefit Life, Fireman’s Insurance, and American Insurance Company were all founded in Newark. PSEG, Panasonic Corporation of North America, Audible.com, and Manischewitz are all headquartered in town, as well.
Newark also offers the benefit of more affordable living in the area; and while the cost of living is still above national averages at 119, it’s a bargain compared to much of the other major cities along I-95. Several higher education options are available: Essex County College, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rutgers University, a Berkeley College campus, and Seton Hall’s School of Law. The New Jersey Performing Arts Center features the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra and the New Jersey State Opera, in addition a variety of other entertainment programs, drawing nearly a half a million visitors each year. Other attractions include the Institute of Jazz Studies, Newark Museum, the New Jersey Historical Society, and a number of festivals.
6
Glendale, Arizona
At a population of over 240,000, Glendale has nearly 8,500 full-time marketing jobs. Many of these are top-quality: 68% offer salaries in the top two-fifths, and 1,800 pay over $90,000. The average pay for a manager is $93,290. Meanwhile, there are thousands of entry- and mid-level positions available, as well. Companies hiring include H&R Block, SONIC, Dunkin’ Donuts, Beauty Brands, and Sun Marketing Solutions, among others. Statewide, the largest employers are in trade and transportation, government, business services, healthcare, and education. The top private job providers are Banner Health, WalMart, Kroger, and Wells Fargo & Co.
Perhaps its biggest selling point: Glendale is by far the most affordable city at the highest ranking. The city’s cost of living index is below the national average at 92.7. The median gross rent is $842, and the mean housing price is $167,208. Again, the lowest so far by a large margin. Known as Arizona’s Antique Capital, the city prides itself on its history and holds a folk & heritage festival, music festival, and major sporting events at the University of Phoenix Stadium, which the Arizona Cardinals call home. (It has also hosted Super Bowls, National Championships, college bowl games, and concerts.) Midwestern University and Glendale Community College are in the city limits, as is U of Arizona’s highly regarded Thunderbird School of Global Management.
6
Jersey City, New Jersey
At a population of about 260,000, Jersey City ties for sixth on our list, with over 17,500 marketing jobs available within a 25 mile radius. Many of these are top-dollar salaries: nearly 4,000 positions offer more than $90k per year, and 63% pay in the top two-fifths. That said, there are more than enough entry- to mid-level positions available that offer unique professional experience and a high-quality client roll call. Companies offering positions include H&R Block, NBCUniversal, IPG Mediabrands, Citi, Dunkin’ Donuts, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, Morgan Stanley, and Selby Jennings, among others. Other headquarters include Verisk Analytics, Lord Abbett, Goya Foods, and Forbes.
Of course, Jersey City greatly benefits from the neighboring metropolis on the other side of the Hudson — New York is just a ferry-ride away – but Jersey City residents receive a big discount on cost of living. Median gross rent stands at $1,166, and the mean housing is $334,595. There’s also plenty to do. The city is full of registered historic places and museums and cultural centers, including the Jersey City Museum, Mana Contemporary, the Museum of Russian Art, the Liberty Science Center, the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, and more. The city’s Shakespeare festival is sponsored by the Hudson Shakespeare Company, which puts on a free outdoor play once a month in the summer.
8
San Jose, California
San Jose offers about 5,500 marketing jobs for a city of about 1 million, the third largest in the state and the largest in the Bay Area. Though this is a relatively small set, the 17th largest on the list, most of these are high-quality, top-paying jobs. 64% of jobs are in the top two-fifths salary tier, and over a thousand offer salaries above $90k per year (many are six-figures). Further, marketing managers’ average pay is $110,430, which is the highest on the list. Plenty of mid-level and entry-level marketing positions are also available. Given San Jose’s Bay Area location, it’s no surprise that these jobs are highly sought after: Facebook, Apple, Google, Super Micro Computer, Cisco, Oracle, Intel, Intuit, Yahoo!, NVIDIA, Stanford University, and elsewhere.
Of course, San Jose will cost you a pretty penny. The cost of living index stands at 149.5; in 2013, median rent was $1,508, and mean prices for all housing units was $617,104. As the acknowledged “Capital of Silicon Valley,” tech companies are everywhere, but San Jose remains a diverse economy. Other top employers include Kaiser Permanente, Target Corporation, Brocade Communications, the U.S. Postal Service, and the County of Santa Clara. The city also boasts an extensive parks system. Nearly 16,000 acres of parks are within the city limits, the oldest of which dates back to 1872, and the city ranks in the top 15 nationally for parks according to The Trust for Public Land. Other attractions include museums, theaters, professional sports, and historic architecture.
9
Boston, Massachusetts
With a population of 670,000, Boston has over 7,500 marketing jobs available within 25 miles of the city. And make no mistake, these pay very well. 67% of jobs are in the top two-fifths earnings bracket, and nearly 1,400 offer more than $95k per year. Marketing managers on average make $105,968. Still, the bulk of positions are entry- and mid-level positions (over 6,000) that combine excellent experience with resume-building portfolio opportunities. Among the companies hiring include Dunkin Donuts, Staples, Advantage Solutions, HAMRA Management Company, Oracle, Wayfair, Michael Page US, Shire, Domino’s, and Harvard University. Boston proper holds the highest concentration of jobs, but Cambridge, Waltham, Framingham, and Burlington are other hubs.
Boston isn’t cheap, but like New York you’re getting a wealth of cultural and professional benefits in return. (The cost of living index is 144, and median rent in 2013 was $1,263.) Boston ranks in the top 30 most economically powerful cities in the world and has the United States’ sixth-largest economy. Financial services, insurance, tourism, healthcare, biotechnology, and publishing are among the major business sectors that make up the city’s diverse economy. Education, of course, is another major driver: Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston University, and Brandeis University are each within the city limits, in addition to a dozen other private colleges, community colleges, and top-rated music conservatories like the Boston Conservatory and Berklee College of Music.
10
Seattle, Washington
Seattle has nearly 5,500 marketing jobs for a population of 680,000. Pay is excellent; 60% of positions are salaried in the top two-fifths, and marketing managers can expect to make $101,757 on average. Over 4,000 are mid- and entry-level positions. Another major business and technology hub to make the list, the companies offering positions are high-quality: Amazon, Microsoft, T-Mobile, Starbucks, Nordstrom, Expedia, Advantage Solutions, University of Washington Medical Center, and more. While Seattle proper has the highest concentration of opportunities, Bellevue, Redmond, Kent, Kirkland, Bothell, Lynnwood, and more have jobs within a 25 mile radius of the city.
Seattle is among the more affordable major economic outposts. The cost of living index is 120, lower than all of its competitors in Northern California, and median gross rent was $1,172 in 2013. As the eleventh-largest economy in the country, Seattle is highly diversified and modernized. In addition to the major corporations listed above, the city has a major port system, start-up community, and healthcare sector, with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, PATH, Infectious Disease Research Institute, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation headquartered in town. It has been ranked as the #1 “Smarter City” according to the NRDC, based on its government policies and green economy, and is committed to becoming North America’s first “climate neutral” city by 2030.
11
Washington, D.C.
Washington DC ties for eleventh spot, with nearly 7,900 marketing positions available to a population of 670,000. DC is especially suited for entry- and mid-level marketing professionals, with a wealth of jobs in that demographic, but high-paying senior level positions can be found. The average marketing manager salary is just above $100,000, and the general salary benchmarks are relatively high across the board. (62% are in the top two-fifths.) As you might expect, some major companies hire in the area: Deloitte, Booz Allen Hamilton, Sapient Government Services, Capital One, Marriott International, Harris Teeter, and more. Arlington, Alexandria, McLean, and Fairfax all also offer marketing opportunities.
The cost of living index is 125, and median rent in 2013 was $1,307. DC isn’t cheap, but few major cities in the Northeast Corridor are. With a gross product of $425 billion in 2010, DC is the country’s fourth-largest economy, and the city boasts a nationally low unemployment rate. Despite the large number of government employees, which make up 29% of the workforce, DC has a highly diversified, robust economy featuring financial services, insurance companies, law firms, lobbying firms, media, tech, healthcare, and public relations, among other business sectors. The city is also home to some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country – Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies – and several important medical research facilities, such as Washington Hospital Center, the Children’s National Medical Center, and the National Institutes of Health.
11
Chicago, Illinois
Tied with DC is Chicago, which has nearly 9,000 marketing positions for a city of 2.7 million. 60% of jobs fall in the top two-fifths of marketing salaries, and the average salary for a marketing manager is just under $100k. Entry- and mid-level professionals also typically have higher-than-usual pay, and top companies hire in the area: Epsilon, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, The Creative Group, Citi, and more. Major agencies in the city include Ogilvy, BBDO, Cramer-Krasselt, 3Q Digital, Rosetta, and Resolution Media. While Chicago offers the highest concentration of jobs, Northbrook, Downers Grove, Oak Brook, and Deerfield are other options.
Chicago is perhaps the most affordable cultural and economic hub in the US. The cost of living index is 107, and the median rent in 2013 was $943. Mean pricing across all housing units was $276,694. Chicago is the third-largest economy in the US, producing $630.3 billion. It has also been recognized as one of the country’s most diverse economies, and was named the the fourth-most important business center in the world, according to the MasterCard Worldwide Centers of Commerce Index. There are 17 Fortune 500 companies in the city, plus 17 Financial Times 500 companies; Boeing, Kraft Foods, McDonald’s, Sears Holdings, Walgreens, Ace Hardware, Claire’s, ULTA Beauty and Crate & Barrel are all headquartered here. On top of that are world-class entertainment and cultural attractions, from museums and parks, to a vibrant nightlife of comedy, jazz, and cuisines.
13
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles has more than 9,000 marketing jobs for a city of 3.9 million, which places it fifth on our list for total full-time opportunities. Nearly half of these are in the top 40% pay bracket, and marketing managers can expect to make $103,894 on average. Still, nearly all of the jobs available are entry- and mid-level, offering excellent potential experience and resume-building roles. Among the top companies hiring include NBCUniversal, Netflix, Deloitte, Creative Circle, Twentieth Century Fox, University of Southern California, UCLA, and California State University. Within 25 miles of LA – which, let’s face it, is still very much LA — Santa Monica, Long Beach, El Segundo, Burbank, Pasadena, Torrance, and Pasadena are among the biggest employment centers.
As the second largest city in the US, LA boasts a diverse and powerful economy, ranking sixth in the the Global Cities Index and 9th in the Global Economic Power Index. Its gross metropolitan product of $831 billion places it behind just New York City and Tokyo. Film and TV are obviously big business – all six major studios are in the city – but there’s much more than entertainment. Six Fortune 500 companies are headquartered here, including Occidental Petroleum, Health Net, Reliance Steel & Aluminum, AECOM Technology, Oaktree Capital Group, and CBRE Group. And the Los Angeles port system is the fifth-busiest in the world, responsible for major imports/exports throughout the Pacific Rim and Western Hemisphere.
14
Anaheim, California
Anaheim comes in at fourteenth, with 8,500 jobs for a city of 350,000. Half of these make up the top 40% pay bracket, and nearly 2,000 pay over $90k. The average salary for a marketing manager is $104,417. Still, entry- and mid-level jobs are available at competitive compensation in large bulk. Among the top companies hiring include Deloitte, B. Braun Medical, Creative Circle, Blizzard Entertainment, Twentieth Century Fox, Abbott, and The University of Southern California. Los Angeles, Irvine, Long Beach, Santa Ana, and Costa Mesa all also offer marketing opportunities.
Also known as the home of Disneyland, Anaheim is largely a tourism economy, but major companies are still in town: AT&T, Anaheim Memorial Medical Center, Hewlett Packard, Isuzu (North American headquarters), Kaiser Foundation, CKE Restaurants, Toyota Financial Services, Panasonic, and Raytheon, among others. The city’s proximity to LA is another boon to the economy, and many commute to work in entertainment, financial services, healthcare, and otherwise. Anaheim’s professional sports teams are a major source of civic pride; the Ducks (NHL) and Angels (MLB) have both won their respective league’s championships recently and draw big crowds. Local schools include Anaheim University, Southern California Institute of Technology, Bristol University, and North Orange County Community College.
15
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta has over 5,700 marketing jobs available to a city of 460,000, many of which offer highly competitive salaries and excellent career prospects. 60% offer pay in the top two-fifths salary tier, and over 1,000 offer more than $90k per year. On average, marketing managers in the city earn just over $93k. Still, entry- and mid-level positions make up the majority of openings. Among those looking are Deloitte, Cox Media Group, Home Depot, Sage, MarketSource, and EY (formerly Ernst & Young). Just outside of the city limits, Alpharetta, Marietta, Norcross, Duluth, Roswell, and Decatur are also offering marketing positions.
With a cost of living index at just 98, Atlanta is below the national average and among the most affordable cities on our list. Median rent in 2013 was $963, and the mean pricing for all housing units was $332,012. Long considered the economic capital of the South, Atlanta has grown in recent decades to become one of the most diversified, powerful economies in the country, ranking 8th in the US and 17th in the world. Housing the third-highest concentration of Fortune 500 companies, it is the world headquarters of The Coca-Cola Company, The Home Depot, Delta Air Lines, AT&T Mobility, Chick-fil-A, UPS, and Newell-Rubbermaid. Major industries include transportation (Hartsfield-Jackson is the world’s busiest airport), logistics, media and entertainment, healthcare, IT, and financial services.
16
Santa Ana, California
Santa Ana has 4,800 marketing jobs for a city of 335,000. Half of these are in the top 40% for compensation, and over a thousand pay more than $90k. On average, marketing managers in the city earn $102,614. Entry- and mid-level positions remain the most supplied. Companies hiring typically include B. Braun Medical, Blizzard Entertainment, The Irvine Company, H&R Block, and others. Irvine, Long Beach, Costa Mesa, Anaheim, and Newport Beach are other options within 25 miles.
The second most populous city in Orange County, Santa Ana’s cost of living index stands at 129. In 2013, median rent was $1,296, and the mean price of all housing units was $333,153. (All said, average for our list, if above average nationally.) As one of the densest cities in the country, Santa Ana is also among the safest, ranked fourth in the country by Forbes. The top employers in the area are The County of Orange, Ingram Micro, Rancho Santiago Community College, and Tenet Healthcare, but Santa Ana is also home to several corporate headquarters, including Behr Paint, CoreLogic, First American Corporation, and Greenwood & Hall. Xerox, Ultimate Software, and T-Mobile each have regional headquarters in the city. Also of note, Rickenbacker, which became famous in the 1960s and 70s for its unique electric guitars and basses. Beyond its economy, Santa Ana has numerous parks and recreation centers, museums, and a zoo.
17
Dallas, Texas
Dallas has almost 6,000 marketing positions for a city of 1.3 million. 46% of these are in the top two-fifths of salaries, and 1,400 senior positions pay over $90k. On average, a marketing manager in the city earns about $93,000. Entry-level and mid-level professionals need not worry: most positions are found here and pay competitively. Among those offering positions include The Marketing Arm, Epsilon, Deloitte, Creative Circle, JPMorgan Chase, Mckesson, Sabre, and Lennox International. Top agencies include Brierley & Partners, Camelot Communications, GSD&M, The LOOMIS Agency, The Richards Group, Slingshot, and Southwest Media Group. Plano, Richardson, Irving, and Arlington all offer a number of marketing positions as well.
For a combination of professional opportunities and affordable living, few places can beat Dallas’s 93.8 cost of living index. In 2013, median rent was $839 and the mean for housing units was $240,562. Its 2014 GDP grew to over $504 billion, and the the city recently became the fourth-largest employment center in the country, behind only New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. According to the GAWC, Dallas was named a “beta plus” world city and ranked 14th for GDP according to he Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Companies headquartered or with major offices in town include AT&T, Dean Foods, Texas Instruments, Southwest Airlines, Energy Future Holdings Corporation, Tenet Healthcare, Affiliated Computer Services, and Energy Transfer Equity, among others.
18
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix has over 4,000 marketing jobs available to a population of 1.5 million. Half of these make up the top 40% pay bracket, and a thousand pay over $90k. Marketing managers make $93,290 on average. Still, entry- and mid-level positions are by far the most available and pay at a competitive tier. In the area, companies hiring include Real Peoples Ratings, Romulus, Sun Marketing Solutions, Terradin, Insight Enterprise, and H&R Block. Top agencies include RIESTER, LaneTerralever, LAVIDGE, Out The Window Advertising, and Owens Harkey Advertising, the first three of which had capitalized billings exceeding $100MM in 2014. Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, and Chandler also offer positions nearby.
With a cost of living index at 93, Phoenix is affordable and growing. In 2013, median rent was $868, while the mean price for overall housing was $214,846. In 2014, the city’s GDP topped $200 billion; in particular, real estate, financial services and insurance, manufacturing, retail, and healthcare were the largest business sectors. Four Fortune 500 companies call Phoenix home – Avnet, Freeport-McMoRan, PetSmart, and Republic Services – and Honeywell, U-HAUL International, Best Western, and Apollo Group all have regional offices in the area. Several performing arts centers are located in the city, along with museums, fine arts galleries, and notable architecture from Frank Lloyd Wright, Paolo Soleri, Will Bruder, and others, who have been instrumental in developing Arizona’s unmistakeable desert aesthetic.
19
Garland, Texas
A rapid transit train (DART) with the skyline of Dallas, Texas in the background
Garland has just shy of 5,300 full-time marketing jobs for a population of 240,000. About half of these offer compensation in the top 40%, and over a thousand pay more than $90k per year. Marketing managers in the city can expect to earn $91,109 on average. Most jobs nevertheless remain directed at entry- and mid-level professionals. Companies hiring in the area include The Marketing Arm, Epsilon, Deloitte, RealPage, McKesson, JPMorgan Chase, Capital One, and UT Southwestern Medical Center. Nearby, Dallas, Plano, Irving, Richardson, and Frisco are hiring. (Dallas’s top agencies include Brierley & Partners, Camelot Communications, GSD&M, The LOOMIS Agency, The Richards Group, Slingshot, and Southwest Media Group.)
With a 93 cost of living index, Garland is among the more affordable cities on our list, and professionals won’t have to forfeit career opportunities. In 2013, median rent was $883, and mean housing prices were $214,086. The city is often overlooked in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, but CNN and Money ranked Garland #67 on their Top 100 Places to Live.” On that note, it’s also been ranked #7 among best cities to save money. The city’s top private employers are Baylor Medical Center, Kraft Foods, US Food Service, and Hatco. Garland is also home to a half-dozen corporate headquarters and regional offices for Sherwin Williams, Dynamics, and Valspar. For life beyond work, the city has nearly 3,000 acres of parks, four performing arts centers, and museums. Richland College and Amberton University are both within city limits.
20
Irving, Texas
Highway traffic passing around Dallas skyline at dusk (Newscom TagID: scphotos111175) [Photo via Newscom]
At a population of 240,000, Irving has 6,800 full-time marketing jobs within 25 miles. 43% of jobs rank in the top two-fifths of compensation, and 1,500 pay above $90k. Marketing managers in the city can expect $92,928 on average. Entry- and mid-level professionals make equally competitive salaries, ranging from $30k to $50-60k. Some companies listing marketing positions in the area include The Marketing Arm, Epsilon, Deloitte, Mckesson, JPMorgan Chase, and Creative Circle. Nearby Dallas also has some of the best ad agencies in the region; among them, Brierley & Partners, Camelot Communications, GSD&M, The LOOMIS Agency, The Richards Group, Slingshot, and Southwest Media Group. Fort Worth and Plano are other close options.
Irving’s 93.6 cost of living index places it among the most affordable on the list. Median rent was $882 in 2013, and mean housing prices were $189,567. Many major corporations have major offices or headquarters in the city, and top employers in 2012-13 were Citigroup, Verizon, Irving Mall, Aegis Communications, Allstate Insurance, YRC Worldwide, Nokia, and Microsoft. ExxonMobil, Michaels Stores, and the Boy Scouts of America have headquarters. The University of Dallas, North Lake College, Dallas County Community College, and Devry University are all within the city limits.
20
Plano, Texas
Plano, Texas, population 280,0000, has about 5,300 full-time marketing jobs within a 25 mile radius. Half of these jobs rank in the top two-fifths of compensation, and over a thousand pay above $90k per year. Marketing managers in town can expect to make $88,911 on average. Entry- and mid-level professionals also have competitive salaries, ranging from $30k to $50-$60k. Among those hiring include The Marketing Arm, Epsilon, Deloitte, Creative Circle, JPMorgan Chase, McKesson, Capital One, and Lennox International. Plano residents can also easily commute to Dallas, where some of the region’s best agencies are located, including GSD&M, The LOOMIS Agency, Brierley & Partners, Camelot Communications, and others.
Plano’s cost of living index stands at 94.4, making it among the more affordable cities on our list. In 2013, median rent was $1,120 and mean pricing for all housing units was $253,125. For those looking for more corporate opportunities, Plano is home to a range of top corporate headquarters: Alliance Data, Cinemark Theatres, Dell Services, Denbury Resources, Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Ericsson, Frito-Lay, Dell Services, HP Enterprise Services, Huawei, JC Penney, Pizza Hut, Rent-A-Center, Traxxas, Siemens PLM Software, Yum! Restaurants International, and Toyota Motors USA. There are nearly 4,000 acres of parks in town, and Collin College, Dallas Baptist University North, and SMU-in-Plano are all in town (the latter of which offers graduate business tracks for working professionals.)
22
Denver, Colorado
Denver has 3,800 full-time marketing jobs for a city of about 680,000. More than half of these offer salaries in the top 40%, and 950 offer compensation above $90k. Marketing managers can expect to make about $95k on average, but many jobs available are for entry- and mid-level professionals, starting at around $25k through $60k and 75$k. Among those hiring include King Soopers, DISH Network, GNC – General Nutrition Centers, Sound Advice Consulting Services, University of Colorado, Oracle, and Comcast. Though Denver has the highest concentration of professional opportunities, Aurora, Boulder, Englewood, Broomfield, and Littleton are among the other nearby cities with marketing positions available.
The Mile High City is ranked as a Beta-world city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network, but the city’s economy is rapidly expanding. In 2010, Denver had a GMP of $160 billion; in 2015, Forbes named it #1 on its list of the Best Places for Business and Careers. Numerous companies have headquarters or significant operations in town, including Molson Coors Brewing Company, Coors Distributing Company, Newmont Mining Corporation, Lockheed Martin, United Airlines, Kroger Co., Xcel Energy, EnCana, Halliburton, Smith International, Starz-Encore, DIRECTV, and others. Its 110 cost of living index is slightly above the national average, but is relatively cheaper than some of the major cities on this list. In 2013, median rent was $898 and mean pricing for housing units was $324,041.
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Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh has about 2,000 full-time marketing jobs available for a city of 450,000. More than half of jobs offer salaries in the top two-fifths, and a quarter offer salaries above $90k. Still, many positions are available for entry- and mid-level professionals, with compensation from $30k-$65k. Among those hiring include Lenovo, Harris Teeter, NC State University, Cisco Systems, IBM, Eli Global, and the State of North Carolina. As part of the Research Triangle, Durham, Cary, Morrisville, and Chapel Hill all have marketing positions nearby.
In 2015, Raleigh was ranked #3 on Forbes‘s list of Best Places For Business And Careers, with a GMP of $68.5 billion. Its 95 cost of living index ranks it among the cheapest cities on our list, particularly appealing in light of the city’s growth projections. The economy is diverse – financial services; electrical, medical, electronic and telecommunications equipment; clothing; food processing; and pharmaceuticals – and includes a number of headquarters: BB&T Insurance Services, Capitol Broadcasting Company, First Citizens BancShares, Golden Corral, Martin Marietta Materials, Red Hat, Waste Industries, and Lulu, among others. In other lists, Raleigh ranks #1 on America’s Best Places to Live, according to Businessweek; #1 for Fastest Growing Cities for Technology Jobs, according to Dice; and #1 for Forbes‘s America’s Most Wired Cities.
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Chula Vista, California
Chula Vista has 2,400 full-time marketing jobs for a population of 265,000. More than half offer salaries in the top two-fifths, and nearly a quarter pay more than $90k per year. The average salary for marketing managers is just under $100k. That said, hundreds of entry- and mid-level positions are available at competitive compensations, as well. Among those hiring include UC San Diego, Biolegend, Illumina, Inc., Union Bank, HP, Seismic Software, California State University, and more. Within 25 miles of Chula Vista, San Diego, El Cajon, La Jolla, La Mesa, and Poway each have marketing positions open.
At a 133 cost of living index, the San Diego suburb is among the more expensive cities on the list. In 2013, median rent was $1,217 and mean pricing for all housing units was $346,902. Still, its proximity to San Diego also brings professional opportunities and benefits. San Diego is a national leader in biotechnology, international trade, research, and tourism; in addition to the Navy, the area’s largest employers include Sharp HealthCare, Qualcomm, Dexcom, Kaiser Permanente, and Scripps Health. In 2014, GMP topped $200 billion. Its also an excellent area for entrepreneurs: in 2014, Forbes ranked it #1 on its list of Best Places To Launch A Startup. Of course, the city has no shortage of cultural attractions – from museums, to theaters, to world-class restaurants – and Los Angeles is just a short drive along the coast.
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia has over 5,000 full-time marketing jobs for a city of 1.6 million. Over half of these pay in the top two-fifths of salaries, and over a thousand offer over $90k per year. Marketing managers can expect to make just under $100k on average, but plenty of entry- and mid-level positions are available, too. Among those hiring include Wawa, Comcast, QuintilesIMS, Lincoln Financial, JPMorgan Chase, CSL Behring, Vanguard, Deloitte, and Boston Market Corporation. While Philly has the highest concentration of career options, Wilmington, King of Prussia, Malvern, and West Chester also hire.
Philadelphia’s cost of living index is 105, higher than the national average but relatively affordable for a major American city. In 2013, rent was $913 and and mean pricing for housing units was $182,131. With a GMP of nearly $400 billion, Philly ranks fourth in the country and ninth worldwide. There are number of high-profile corporations headquartered in town, including seven Fortune 1000 companies. Some top employers include Comcast, Aramark, Crown Holdings, FMC, Urban Outfitters, Chemtura, and Pep Boys. It is also a major education center, housing the the third-largest student concentration on the East Coast, with top-ranked schools like the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, Temple University, and the Curtis Institute of Music. Philly is the only World Heritage City in the United States.
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