The Reality of Entry-Level Jobs in the US

Entry-level jobs provide crucial work experience and can open doors to exciting career opportunities. They often allow for internal advancement if you prove valuable to the company. However, these positions come with entry-level pay, which may not be livable in expensive cities.

The Most Expensive Cities for Entry-Level Workers

NetCredit, using MIT's Living Wage Calculator, analyzed how many entry-level job ads in various cities offer wages above the local living cost. The findings highlight cities where it's toughest for adults without children to make ends meet on an entry-level salary. Parents face an even steeper challenge.

Here are the 20 worst US cities for entry-level jobs, based on the percentage of job ads above the living wage:

1. Honolulu, Hawaii: 27.7%
2. Virginia Beach, Virginia: 32.3%
3. Miami, Florida: 34.3%
4. Boise, Idaho: 38.7%
5. Anaheim, California: 39.1%
6. North Las Vegas, Nevada: 39.1%
7. Glendale, Arizona: 39.3%
8. Scottsdale, Arizona: 40.5%
9. Santa Ana, California: 42%
10. San Jose, California: 42%
11. Mesa, Arizona: 43%
12. Chandler, Arizona: 43.5%
13. Chula Vista, California: 43.5%
14. Gilbert, Arizona: 43.5%
15. Portland, Oregon: 43.8%
16. Atlanta, Georgia: 44.9%
17. Garland, Texas: 45.6%
18. Orlando, Florida: 45.7%
19. San Diego, California: 46.5%
20. Riverside, California: 46.8%

Trends in Entry-Level Job Markets

Many of the worst cities are in the Southwest US, with Arizona and California dominating the list. In contrast, the Midwest offers more affordability and was well-represented in NetCredit's list of favorable cities for entry-level workers.

Surprisingly, New York City ranked 19th best, with about 71.4% of job ads above the living wage, thanks to its status as a financial hub and high cost of living attracting higher-paying opportunities.

Entry-level jobs are typically not meant for supporting a family but serve as launchpads for career growth, ideal for teens or young adults building resumes.

Natee Meepian / Getty Images/iStockphoto

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Adapting to an Entry-Level Salary

To manage on an entry-level wage, create a budget to track expenses and find ways to reduce costs. Consider part-time jobs or side hustles for extra income. The long-term solution is seeking career advancement for higher salaries.

Working remotely from a city with a low cost of living can offer the best of both worlds: high-paying opportunities and affordable living.