Each year millions of college graduates are faced with the daunting decision of where to find a job after graduation. There are many factors that go into this delicate decision, and the process can’t be taken lightly. When searching for a new city to call home, graduates must consider things like job opportunities, earning potential, career growth, cost of living, and the social scene. With these factors in mind, here are some of the most booming cities for recent grads in the country:

1. Washington DC

This popular city is in the District of Columbia and has been considered “recession proof” due to the low unemployment rate and ample job opportunities. While about 25 percent of the job market is attributed to United States government, the city offers opportunities of all types. New graduates will not only love the ease of commuting, but they’ll also get their fill of an endless amount of history and a hopping night life.

2. Seattle, Washington

Seattle is an entrepreneur’s dream. The city is saturated with start-up opportunities and is extremely oriented towards the millennial and new graduate age-group. Seattle is also very tech-oriented thanks to large employers like Amazon, Orbitz, Microsoft, Expedia, and Google who have headquarters here. In addition, the city’s coastal proximity is perfect for those who enjoy adventuring outdoors. With great local eateries and a hopping bar scene, there is no shortage of things to do in Seattle, making it a perfect choice for the adventurous new grad.

3. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City offers all the amenities of a large city without sacrificing its small-town Midwestern charm. The cost of living in Kansas City remains low (rent for a 900-square ft. apartment in an expensive area of town is only $1400!) while job opportunities in the area continue to expand. The city recently added a streetcar that serves as the city’s first form of downtown public transit, and downtown, developers recently built two large sky rise apartment complexes to create a true live, work, play atmosphere. Though Kansas City usually gets a bad rap, this city is worth keeping an eye on!

4. Austin, Texas

For new grads, Austin, TX offers the best of both worlds. This Texas town scores high in both job availability and after work entertainment options. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin, which is also the capital of Texas, draws some of the world’s biggest musical acts. Another tech-friendly city, Austin has been named the Silicon Valley of Texas, and is a popular place for entrepreneurs to get their start. Major employers in the Austin area include Dell, IBM, and Whole Foods.

5. Cincinnati, Ohio

This city offers a unique blend of Midwest and East Coast cultures and is a great option for new graduates. Cincinnati is extremely affordable, ranking third lowest in cost of living amongst US cities. It also boasts a booming job market with major employers including Macy’s, Kroger, and Procter and Gamble. With a professional baseball and football team, this Midwest town also offers plenty of entertainment opportunities and has been acclaimed one of the best cities for beer enthusiasts.

These are just a few of the nation’s best cities for recent graduates. New grads will enjoy the roaring job markets, thriving entertainment and nightlife, and affordable living of these top five picks.