Bellevue has been ranked No. 12 nationwide in a new study identifying the best small U.S. cities for big career opportunities in 2025. The ranking places Bellevue among the country’s strongest mid-sized economic centers and highlights the broader strength of the Eastside.
The study evaluated 298 cities with populations under 250,000 using a 100-point scale that measured economic performance, workforce trends, and quality-of-life factors. Researchers examined income levels, wage growth, employer density, remote-work rates, and labor-force participation. They also assessed healthcare access, education levels, and commute times. A panel of nine experts contributed additional insight.
Bellevue’s Ranking and Key Metrics
Bellevue’s median household income stands at $161,194, ranking 15th highest among the cities analyzed. Wages have increased 44% over the past five years, reflecting steady income growth tied to the region’s innovation economy.
The city ranks seventh nationally for corporate presence and is home to two Fortune 100 employers, including Amazon and Microsoft. Bellevue also ranks seventh for industry diversity, with a broad mix of economic sectors that support long-term stability…