Employment Review

1. Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill, NC
POPULATION: 1.2 million
COST OF LIVING INDEX: 107.7

KEY EMPLOYERS: State of North Carolina; International Business Machines (IBM); Wake County Public School System; North Carolina State University; GlaxoSmithKline, Inc.; WakeMed; Nortel, Inc.; Rex Healthcare; SAS Institute, Inc.; Progress Energy; Wake County; Hansen Aggregates; City of Raleigh; Cisco Systems; Waste Industries; WorldCom; Dorothea Dix Hospital; Research Triangle Institute; Verizon; First Citizens Bank & Trust Company; Longistics; Wachovia Corporation; Food Lion Stores; Kroger Stores; Invensys/Secure Power; United Parcel Service; The Capital Area YMCA, Inc.; U.S. EPA Environmental Research Center; Harris Teeter Stores; American Airlines Reservation Center; Ericsson, Inc.; Keebler, Inc.; The News & Observer Publishing Company; TriArc Food Systems/Bojangle's Restaurants; Wal-Mart; Freight Handlers; KMart Stores; WinnDixie Stores; Golden Corral Corporation; Nationwide Insurance Company; Wake Technical Community College

HOUSING COSTS: Average home price is $200,000.
TAXES: Personal income tax starts at 6 percent.
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE: 5.5 percent
PROJECTED JOB GROWTH THROUGH 2008: 33 percent
EDUCATION: Ten top-quality colleges and universities are in the Triangle region.
HEALTHCARE: The Triangle offers a fine array of well-respected facilities, including two of the top medical teaching and research hospitals.
ARTS: North Carolina Symphony, North Carolina Museum of Art, North Carolina Museum of History, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Walnut Creek Amphitheater, North Carolina Theater, Raleigh Little Theatre and Rose Garden, Theatre in the Park, Raleigh Ensemble Players, Raleigh Oratorio Society, National Opera Company, Moore Square Arts District, Raleigh Civic Ballet Company, Raleigh Dance Theatre, Easy Moving Dance Company and The Dance Project, The Carolina Ballet, American Dance Festival, Royall Center for the Arts, Duke University Museum of Art, North Carolina Central University Art Museum, Carolina Theatre of Durham, Museum of Life and Sciences, Carolina PlayMakers Repertory Company, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium, Chapel Hill Museum, Kenan Football Center Hall of Honor, Artspace

It should not come as a surprise that Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill has earned the No. 1 spot on our list of best places to live and work for the second year in a row. This is a place that 1.2 million people are content to call home, and for so many good reasons. The area offers a great quality of life, a low crime rate, affordable housing, top-notch educational institutions, some of the best healthcare facilities in the world, a diverse industry base, and an environment in which it is ideal to raise a family. What more could anyone ask for?

Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill, often referred to as the Triangle, has a thriving business sector. The area is anchored by one of the nation's largest research parks and three nationally renowned research universities. Industry giants in pharmaceuticals, computer software, telecommunications, and biotechnology call the Triangle home. Having recently celebrated its 40th birthday, Research Triangle Park (RTP) is the premier address for relocating and expanding companies that want access to technology-transfer opportunities made possible by the Park's close ties to Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University. RTP is the largest planned research park in the United States, consisting of some 45,000 employees on 7,000 acres. Some of the most notable tenants include Cisco Systems, EPA, Ericsson, IBM and Nortel.

The industry base here is quite diverse. Manufacturing, for instance, accounts for 12 percent of the industry base, employing approximately 80,000 people. Information technology has played a major role in the Triangle's development and success since the early 1960s. Today, the Raleigh-Durham area is ranked 20th in the country for its concentration of high-tech personnel.

Healthcare is extremely important to those who live and work in the Triangle. Two of the nation's top teaching and research hospitals are located here. Known as the "City of Medicine," nearly one in three people in Durham's work force is in a medical or healthcare-related field. Chapel Hill is also a strong center of medicine, with UNC hospitals, while Raleigh and Wake County offer several well-respected facilities, including Rex Healthcare and Wake Medical Center.

Residents in the Triangle have many opportunities to enjoy the area's beauty. Centrally located between the Blue Ridge Mountains to the west and the Outer Banks and Atlantic Coast to the east, the climate here is pleasant year-round. There is also plenty to see and do: theater productions, art museums and great collegiate sporting events keep everyone busy.

2. Madison,WI
POPULATION: 438,881
COST OF LIVING INDEX: 110.7

KEY EMPLOYERS: University of Wisconsin-Madison; University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics; Madison Metropolitan School District; United States Government; City of Madison; Dade County Government; Madison Area Technical College (MATC); Verona Area School District; Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District; Sun Prairie Area School District; American Family Mutual Insurance Group; Meriter Health Services; Wisconsin Physicians Service Insurance Corporation; Oscar Mayer Foods; CUNA Mutual Group; University of Wisconsin Medical Foundation; Dean Medical Center; St. Mary's Hospital Medical Center; Springs Window Fashion Division, Inc.; Stoughton Trailer, Inc.; Covance Inc.; Lands' End; TDS TELECOM; Alliant Energy Corporation; QTI Group; Sitel Technology Services; Famous Footwear; Webcrafters, Inc.; Life Style Staffing; Rayovac Corporation; Datex-Ohmeda; McDonald's/Missoula Mac, Inc.; Pleasant Company; Madison Gas & Electric Company; adtec Staffing Services; Kohl's Food Stores; Madison Newspapers, Inc.; Madison-Kipp Corporation; Pizza Hut of Southern Wisconsin, Inc.; Marshall Erdman & Associates; General Casualty Companies; Great Lakes Higher Education Corporation; Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.; YMCA of Dane County, Inc.; Promega Corporation; Earthgrains - Gardner Division; Manpower Staffing, Inc.; Verizon; J.H. Findorff & Sons, Inc.

Known as a quaint city with small-town values, Madison has so much to offer its residents. The heart of this city is the University of Wisconsin. More than 40,000 students from every corner of the nation and the world come together to learn. Beyond education, Madison has plenty to offer, including a low cost of living and a low unemployment rate.

Medical research is an extremely important industry in Madison. Thousands of research projects are continually in progress at the University of Wisconsin and in various other places in the Madison area. The University Medical School, five general hospitals, over 20 major medical clinics, and more than 100 research and testing labs all combine to make the Madison area a world-class medical center with a reputation for excellence. Research is also taking place in the fields of genetic engineering, robotics, highway planning, agriculture, aviation and aeronautics, and zoology. With the establishment of developments such as University Research Park, Madison is attracting many research and development companies.

Over 30,000 people are employed in Madison-area manufacturing. Long-standing industries such as meat packing and agricultural equipment are based in Madison, as well as firms developing tomorrow's technology in hospital equipment, advanced instrumentation and storage batteries. In the financial, professional and technical service industries, Madison is the world headquarters for Rayovac Corporation, Promega Corporation and Oscar Mayer Foods. Madison is also home for many leading insurance companies, such as American Family Insurance, CUNA Mutual Group, General Casualty and more than 30 others.

Diversified farming contributes to Madison's stability and continued prosperity. Dane County is ranked among the top 10 counties in the nation in value of farm products. Greater Madison has established the World Dairy Center and is making exciting progress toward its goal of becoming the center for the world dairy industry.

For professionals in need of relaxation, Madison is the place to be. Residents can take a leisurely stroll down State Street, which is only open to pedestrians, bikes and buses. The arts and culture provide the people of Madison with plenty to do on the weekends. Combine this with Madison's stable economy, and you have a great place to work and live.

3. Austin, TX
POPULATION: 1.3 million
COST OF LIVING INDEX: 103.3

KEY EMPLOYERS: The University of Texas at Austin; Dell Computer Corporation; City of Austin; Austin Independent School District; Motorola, Inc.; Seton Healthcare Network; IBM Corporation; HEB Austin Regional Office; IRS/Austin Center; Austin Community College; Round Rock ISD - Public Relations & Partners in Education; Texas Department of Transportation; Travis County Government; Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.; Texas Department of Public Safety; Texas Water Development Board; Applied Materials, Inc.; Southwest Texas State University; Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts; Texas Department of Health; St. David's Healthcare Partnership; United States Postal Service/Austin CS Office; Texas Committee on Environmental Quality; SBC/Southwestern Bell - Texas; Texas Department of Human Services

The state capital, Austin, is a hot area for business. Even during the economic downturn of the past couple of years, the Greater Austin area continued to add jobs, although not as many as in the past. Key industries here include biosciences, computers and peripherals, film, logistics and distribution, multimedia, music, semiconductors, software, telecommunications and call centers.

The bioscience industry in Austin is taking off. Currently, Austin is home to approximately 85 bioscience companies that produce products and services such as pharmaceuticals, preventive medicines, medical devices, laboratory tools and analysis, gene-based cancer therapies, and many more. The University of Texas is a major asset for this industry.

Austin is known for its international connections. Location contributes greatly to Austin's success as an export city. It is only 200 miles from Dallas/Fort Worth's international airport and customs facilities. Top trading partners include Mexico, Canada, Taiwan, Japan and the United Kingdom.

For people looking for something to do, there is never a boring moment. Austin is a culturally and artistically entertaining metropolis. It also has a thriving music scene. Called the "Live Music Capital of the World," musicians flock here to make it big. Hollywood and New York City should step aside; Austin is becoming a major player in the film industry. According to the Austin Film Office, the estimate of total production budgets of films made in and around Austin annually totals up to $100 million. Some of the films shot here include Spy Kids, The Rookie, Miss Congeniality and Office Space.

The outlook for Austin is great for the near future. The city has the ideal blend of strong growth, a stable economy, job opportunities in many different industries, a low cost of living and an outstanding quality of life. Austin offers a package that is perfect for both the single and married business professional.

Huntsville is a unique city that maintains its balance between being a town with a rich heritage steeped in southern traditions and being a progressive, high-tech city dedicated to innovation and exploration. What makes this southern gem so appealing is its affordability and low unemployment during difficult economic times.

The Redstone Arsenal still remains among the U.S. Army's most important strategic posts - leading efforts in the research, development, production, and worldwide support of missiles, aviation, rockets and related programs. Huntsville is also well known for space exploration. With about 2,700 employees and an annual budget of some $2.3 billion, the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) is one of NASA's largest field operations.

In addition to its ties to the military and its being the home of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville also boasts a diverse economic base, with industries such as manufacturing, biotechnology, telecommunications, and electronics. This metro location's technological success inspired development of the nationally recognized University of Alabama in Huntsville and the world-renowned Cummings Research Park (CRP) - the second largest research park in the nation.

When residents aren't working in Huntsville, they are enjoying the many activities this city offers. Art lovers can enjoy a day visiting galleries and museums, and outdoor enthusiasts can do everything from golfing to boating and biking. A huge attraction here is the U.S. Space & Rocket Center that offers the popular education program U.S. Space Camp, which provides young people with the opportunity to learn all about space travel.

Undoubtedly, the quality of life can't be beat here. The city's diversity, warm climate, and economic strengths are great reasons to make the move to Huntsville.

Atlanta offers the good life: a comfortable climate, affordable housing, access to cutting-edge arts and cultural events, and a wide array of professional sports teams. With so many things to see and do here, you'll never get bored. And for professionals who feel the need to get away for the weekend, it's only two hours to the North Georgia mountains and a few hours to the beach.

Otherwise known as the Peachtree City, Atlanta is the capital of Georgia and is at the center of the Southeast. Eighty-three percent of U.S. cities are within a two-hour plane ride, so traveling to other places is easy. The city offers a booming local economy; a solid, supportive infrastructure; and a highly educated work force.

In 2001, there were just under 2.2 million workers in metro Atlanta. Projections show that in 2005, the labor force will consist of nearly 2.4 million people. The majority of workers are employed in the service and retail trade industries, as well as the government sector. These areas of employment continue to grow at an astounding rate. Metro Atlanta ranks first in telecommunications employment and sixth in software employment nationally.

It is really no wonder why people are coming to Atlanta in droves. Along with the excellent weather, there are all types of outdoor activities. Sports fans can watch baseball's Atlanta Braves or the NBA's Atlanta Hawks. For people who prefer the arts, there are a wide array of museums and art galleries. And don't forget that Atlanta is also a theater town, with more than 20 local theater companies producing new and classic works.

The beauty of Atlanta combines with a great lifestyle and unlimited opportunities for employment. The area continues to offer new positions for job seekers and more educated workers for companies looking to hire. With a thriving economy and endless opportunities for recreation, arts and culture, and education, it is simple to see why Atlanta is a best place to live and work.

Dubbed "Music City USA," Nashville offers an abundance of creative energy and talent, as well as an openness to artistic ideas. People here can be found at one of the many art galleries during the day and two-stepping to country music in the evening. Beyond the arts, Nashville offers diverse industries, a low cost of living, and economic stability.

There isn't just one top industry in Nashville - there are several. It is a leader in printing and publishing: a major source of publishing in the music industry and a hub for southeastern U.S. magazines and newspapers. Other dominant industries include finance and insurance, healthcare management, and automobile and related-sector manufacturing. Hospitality is also a highly regarded industry here. With more than 53,000 people in Davidson County employed in the hospitality industry, and with annual revenues in excess of $2.5 billion, the hospitality industry plays a key role in the city's healthy economy.

Nashville is not only the state capital, but also the country music capital of the world. The entertainment industry is huge here, with dozens of record labels. The music industry's success has helped bring other businesses to the area, such as satellite companies, catering, photography, public relations, accounting and graphic arts.

Logistically speaking, Nashville is the ideal location for the transportation industry, with more than 150 major trucking companies and freight handlers in the area. It is located within 65 miles of half the U.S. population. Three major interstate highways - I-40, I-65 and I-24 - run through Nashville and are direct links to major cities throughout the country.

Education is a serious subject here. According to a study conducted by the Center for Regional Economic Issues at Case Western University, Nashville is one of the 10 most educated metropolitan areas in the United States. More than 85,000 students are enrolled in the 18 colleges, universities, technical schools and other postsecondary programs in Middle Tennessee.

The benefits of moving to Nashville are tremendous: low unemployment, a great cost of living, top educational institutions, and tons of employment opportunities.

The Fargo-Moorhead metro area lies along the Red River and forms a unified business community that is home to one of the upper Midwest's fastest-growing economies. Known for its laid-back lifestyle, education and training excellence, and for a skilled and eager work force, the Fargo-Moorhead area is an outstanding place to live and work.

Healthcare, education, retail, finance and agriculture provide a broad economic base that offers stability in good times and bad. Fargo-Moorhead has been called an island of economic stability, listing among its attributes a great quality of life, affordable housing and lots of available jobs.

Education is a high priority here. Fargo-Moorhead is unique as a center of learning, attracting more than 24,000 post-secondary students each year. Located adjacent to North Dakota State University (NDSU) and Hector International Airport, the NDSU Research & Technology Park is a place where university researchers and private industry combine their efforts to develop new technologies, methods and products.

Fargo-Moorhead is the entertainment capital of the region, offering a wide variety of activities for both visitors and residents. The public can spend a night on the town eating at one of the many fine restaurants, taking in a play at the Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre or listening to the beautiful music of the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony or Fargo-Moorhead Opera Company. For people who love the great outdoors, there are five area state parks within a short driving distance from Fargo-Moorhead that provide year-round recreational activities.

An excellent unemployment rate, a diverse work force and low cost of living, reasonable housing costs and outstanding educational opportunities make the Fargo-Moorhead area an ideal choice for both individuals seeking relocation and businesses that are ready to move.

When most people think of Minneapolis, they think of its twin city, St. Paul, as well. However, we decided to focus on just Minneapolis as a best place to live and work. This city has plenty to offer professionals in a variety of different industries, including computer manufacturing, electronics, medical instruments, milling, machine manufacturing, food processing, graphic arts and publishing. There are many Fortune 500 firms located here, and some of the world's largest private businesses have also set up shop in Minneapolis.

The metro area has a strong and diversified economy that has contributed significantly to the development of the area. The region has one of the largest concentrations of high-technology companies in the country - more than 1,300 firms. The University of Minnesota and other academic institutions provide highly skilled engineers and scientists, as well as applied research, to high-tech firms.

One of the most impressive aspects of this city is its dedication to education. The University of Minnesota, one of the largest universities in the country, is a major research institution, with fields of study that number in the hundreds. About a dozen Nobel Prizes have been awarded to former students and faculty in areas such as physics, medicine, chemistry, economics and peace.

There is never a dull moment in Minneapolis. Residents can enjoy one of the many museums or art galleries, or spend an evening at the theater. Outdoor lovers can enjoy many recreational activities, and sports fans can enjoy a baseball, football or hockey game. However, probably the most well-known attraction here is the Mall of America. It is the country's largest shopping and entertainment complex, offering activities for residents and visitors alike. These are just some of the reasons Minneapolis has been chosen as a great place to live and work.

San Diego is the birthplace of California. In 1542, Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo landed in what is now San Diego Bay and claimed the area for Spain. Today, San Diego is known for its picturesque beaches, gorgeous scenery, warm and friendly people, great economy and culturally diverse population.

San Diego offers so much for professionals in a variety of industries. The city is home to industries such as high tech, manufacturing, retail, tourism, construction, maritime, agriculture, defense and military. This blending of employment opportunities and a wide range of available activities makes San Diego an excellent place to live and work.

San Diegans have active lifestyles, so excellence in healthcare is a top priority. San Diego's many hospitals are sure to meet the specialized needs of their patients with ease and expertise. Because the region has above-average healthcare access, a high number of doctors per capita and an impressive ratio of family doctors to specialists, patients can be fairly sure they are in good hands.

There are six universities, 32 colleges, five community colleges and 250 post-secondary schools in San Diego County. The area's exceptional institutions of higher learning have provided a focal point for the establishment and growth of a San Diego research-oriented community. The education system here has provided the region with one of the most skilled labor pools in the country.

There is no doubt, San Diego has it all: a great climate, diverse population, top-notch healthcare and education, and a strong economic forecast. The area offers a fairly low cost of living and a plethora of industries, so for companies looking to relocate, and individuals who are dreaming of the sun and fun, this is the place to be.

Salt Lake City has experienced tremendous economic growth over the past 20 years. It is no wonder the city was honored host of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. It was a natural choice, taking special advantage of the world-class skiing available just 30 minutes from downtown. But besides the boost to the local economy that the Olympic Games provided, Salt Lake City is booming, with one of the highest concentrations of biomedical, high-tech and software firms in the country.

As new businesses move in and established businesses grow, downtown property values continue to climb. The total commercial valuation of downtown has increased from $700 million in 1991 to almost $1.4 billion in 2001. Twenty-six construction projects are underway downtown, with just 10 of those reporting a combined cost of over $735 million. This is not only beneficial for these businesses but also for the residents of Salt Lake City.

There's quite a lot to see and do in Salt Lake City, from researching your family's history using the largest collection of genealogical data in the world to taking a dinner cruise on the Great Salt Lake. The architecture downtown is unique, with the Capitol Building and Historic Temple Square illustrating the city's role as the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Within a day's drive are 10 national parks, and right in the heart of the city is access to three pro teams: the Utah Jazz, Grizzlies and Buzz. For people who love to ski, Salt Lake City is the place to be. Ten major ski resorts, six cross-country areas, and the nation's only recreational ski jumping complex are all within one hour from downtown.

If Salt Lake City sounds appealing, consider that the area has a very reasonable cost of living index and housing prices hover around the national average. Moreover, the area has a highly respected educational system, with three Division I universities within 30 miles. All of this combined with the projected economic outlook makes Salt Lake City the perfect place to call home.

Columbus' history is quite interesting. The city started out as a market town and state capital. In the 19th century, it didn't have the geographical advantages of a lake port such as Cleveland, nor a thriving river port such as Cincinnati. Actually, Columbus ranked third among Ohio cities until the end of the 20th century. Today, it is a large, thriving metropolitan area, which offers a stable business climate and excellent quality of life.

This city continues to hold strong during this economic downturn. The metro area offers a diversified mix of service, retail, distribution, government and light industrial employers. Although it is home to half a dozen Fortune 500 companies, Columbus has a broad range of smaller employers, both public and private. Its location is ideal - just a one-day drive or a 90-minute flight from most major regions. The locale makes it perfect for transporting products throughout the nation.

Service-based businesses are what keep the economy going strong here. In addition, it is recognized as being one of the country's major areas for research and high-tech entrepreneurship. Industries such as finance, insurance, real estate, wholesale and retail trade, transportation and utilities offer great employment opportunities for professionals.

Columbus has a strong educational community, from the huge Ohio State University to more than a dozen other schools in the area. Ohio State University, which boasts a 1,712-acre main campus, has undergone a number of changes over the past year. The university has implemented a new academic plan that focuses on such initiatives as improving the quality of undergraduate education, recruiting and hiring world-class faculty, and creating a more diverse university community.

There is always something to do in Columbus whether you are spending the evening listening to jazz music, taking in a hockey game or going to the theater. Columbus is the place to be for single professionals and families alike.

A superb business environment, excellent year-round weather, and a skilled and educated work force make Tampa and Hillsborough County a premier locale in the global marketplace. Today, the area's biggest industries are services, retail, manufacturing, finance, insurance and real estate.

Jobs have been created in everything from high tech to entertainment as the area's economy continually diversifies. The city is in one of those areas that has a good mix of industry.

Once perceived as a city filled with retirees, that couldn't be further from the truth today. In fact, the median age in Hillsborough County is 33.6 years. The area is packed with cultural events and social activities for people of every age group and walk of life. From ballet to baseball, everyone in this city is having fun.

Tampa is top of the class when it comes to its educational system, which takes pride in encouraging diversity, community involvement and academic achievement. It is home to the third-largest school system in Florida and is the largest employer in Hillsborough County.

Tampa holds its own in terms of livability against metropolitan hot spots like Atlanta and Seattle, and even though it does it on a slightly smaller scale, the advantages are evident. Quality of life and low cost of living give this city by the bay the edge over larger more expensive areas. Tampa offers professionals a great variety of opportunities and has plenty of room for future growth.

Cambridge is certainly not the biggest city on this year's list, but it has so much to offer. The city is known for its high educational standards, and the fact that it is so close to one of the most vibrant metropolitan areas, Boston, makes it a best place to live and work.

Cambridge is the setting for world-renowned educational institutions Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. First settled in 1630 and incorporated as a city in 1846, the 6.2 miles that make up this location are packed full of distinct neighborhoods boasting of a diverse population. Situated across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge has long been the perfect place for professionals who wish to work in a large city but live on the outskirts. Cambridge offers the perfect location for both residents and businesses. This city is home to many high-tech and biotech companies.

Boston may offer people a great nightlife and cultural experience, but Cambridge offers quite a bit for its residents. The "Squares" of Cambridge are charming neighborhoods rich in adventurous dining options, as well as unique shops, theaters, museums and historic sites. And it is recognized as having the world's largest number of bookstores per capita.

Cambridge has developed into an international community merging history, education, arts and culture within its lively neighborhoods. The city also features many theaters, museums and art centers. With its wide array of attractions and activities, Cambridge is a small place that is chock full of huge opportunities.

When someone thinks of Louisville, the first thing that comes to mind is the area's best-known tourist attraction - the Kentucky Derby. But more than that, The Greater Louisville region is known for its healthy economy. Louisville has added more than 50,000 net jobs, $3 billion in payroll growth and well over $1.5 billion in business investment - a record that few communities its size can match.

Greater Louisville is poised to continue its recent history of steady economic growth and prosperity, as evidenced by the number of companies relocating and expanding in the region. UPS' plan to invest $1 billion to expand its international air hub is an excellent example of the momentum the community is experiencing. Many industries are thriving here, including tourism, healthcare, banking and publishing.

Greater Louisville's medical community is an economic engine for the region, creating thousands of high-quality jobs and bringing hundreds of millions of "export" dollars into the local economy. The community's growing reputation for leading-edge medical research and support services and excellent health care services draws businesses, researchers, teachers, physicians and patients from throughout the region and the nation. With 19 acute care hospitals and approximately 5,200 hospital beds, the Louisville area has emerged as one of America's outstanding regional healthcare centers.

With more than 20 colleges and universities, the community also offers a wide array of excellent educational opportunities. And the Jefferson County Public School system (P-12) is among the most technologically advanced in the nation, averaging one computer for every eight students.

The community offers a mild climate, inexpensive living, world-class healthcare facilities, outstanding modes of transportation, a wide array of recreational pursuits, internationally renowned theater and arts, and a healthy, expanding economy. Louisville is everything a professional could want in a city.

Overland Park was officially incorporated on May 20, 1960. At the time, it had approximately 29,000 residents and 13 square miles of land. Today, Overland Park is the 38th fastest-growing city in the United States, encompassing more than 56 square miles. Located in the southwestern portion of the Kansas City metropolitan area, Overland Park has a work force population of more than 300,000 and an established reputation as one of the nation's most dynamic corporate office centers.

Business in Overland Park is booming. Companies are from a wide variety of industries, including insurance and financial services, health services, publishing, telecommunications and education. Since 1990, more than 19.5 million square feet of commercial and industrial development, with an estimated cost of $1.75 billion, have been built in Overland Park. Overland Park serves as the regional, national and world headquarters for many companies. Among the city's many employers are Sprint, Yellow Corporation, Farmers Insurance Group and Applebee's International.

Education is top-notch here. Overland Park is fortunate to have three of Johnson County's award-winning public school systems within its border. All three school districts offer a variety of special education, learning disability, gifted child, music, arts and sports programs. Overland Park is also home to the University of Kansas Edwards Campus and Johnson County Community College.

Being just 12 miles outside of Kansas City, residents in Overland Park enjoy many of the area's attractions, including professional sports, live theater, art museums, amusement parks and petting zoos. With several parks in the area, there are also plenty of recreational activities, including biking, hiking and boating.

Overall, Overland Park presents an excellent work environment, an educated and skilled labor force, an attractive housing market, award-winning schools, low crime rates, short commute times and many recreational and cultural activities.

Tucson is a cosmopolitan city with a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, Mexican, African-American, Asian and Anglo heritages. Unlike a Sahara-like desert, the desert here contains much natural growth, including green trees and many varieties of cacti that are in colorful bloom from April until late May.

Tucson is not only a beautiful place to live but also an amazing place to work. With more than 1,200 companies employing more than 50,000 people in the high-tech industries of Southern Arizona, Tucson has become a leader in the new knowledge-based economy. The City of Tucson, Pima County, the State of Arizona and the private sector have all made commitments to create a growing, healthy economy with high-tech industries as its foundation. Besides high tech, Tucson's other top industries include manufacturing, education, healthcare and the military. Tucson is home to The University of Arizona, a major research institution that is nationally renowned for advances in optical sciences, medical sciences, electronics, scientific instrumentation, astronomy and geology.

Before state-of-the-art medical facilities existed, the dry desert air in Arizona was recommended by doctors across the country for patients with respiratory problems. Tucson now boasts some of the most sophisticated healthcare available anywhere. The University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, Tucson Medical Center and University Medical Center are among the leaders in area full-service providers.

There is always something to do or see in Tucson. Sports fans can have a field day taking in a baseball game. Tucson is the only U.S. city to provide a spring training venue for three major league baseball teams: the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Chicago White Sox and the Colorado Rockies. Other attractions include the Pima Air & Space Museum, the world-famous Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, and Reid Park Zoo. Tucson has been touted as a "mini-mecca" for the arts and enjoys a professional opera, a symphony orchestra, ballet and theater companies.

Besides being a rewarding place to work, Tucsonans enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, mild weather, and a low cost of living. What more could a business professional looking to relocate want out of a city?

Bellevue truly offers its residents the best of both worlds - a mere 20 minutes east of Seattle and less than an hour from the Cascade Mountains. This has become the ideal place for individuals and professionals with families who want to enjoy city life but at the same time want to be able to get away from the hustle and bustle from time to time.

Bellevue sits in the middle of the Eastside Technology Corridor that stretches from the computer game makers in Renton, Wash., to the heart of the software industry in Redmond, Wash., and the high-tech support services found in Bothell, Wash. Business is strong on the Eastside in all facets of high tech, from bio-medical research to aerospace. Bellevue was the first city in the state of Washington to install a state-of-the-art underground fiber optic loop and remains one of the few cities in the region with multi-service telecommunications providers and a well-educated work force to fulfill the need for employers moving into the area.

Besides technology, there are many strong industries in Bellevue, including manufacturing, healthcare, and retail and wholesale. The service industry continues to grow to meet the demands of local consumers. More than half of the jobs in Bellevue are in the service industry or retail. The number of jobs in the service industry has grown by more than 15,000 during the past eight years.

The downtown Bellevue lifestyle appeals to a wide variety of people. Residents enjoy a neighborhood where they can walk to museums, concerts, the theater and shops. Outdoor enthusiasts love a community that is built around the waters of the largest and deepest freshwater lake on the West Coast.

The cost of living may be a bit higher in this upper northwest locale, but the quality of life can't be beat. There is always something to do or see, healthcare and educational standards are excellent, and the area offers diverse industries.

It is the best-kept secret: Omaha is a great place to live and work. Located on the western banks of the Missouri River, the city has been an important agricultural and transportation center since its establishment in the late 1850s. During the early days, Omaha was a trading center and the Gateway to the West. From these roots, it has steadily grown. Now it is the forty-fifth largest city and the sixty-first largest metro area in the nation.

Omaha's employment base, anchored by more than 18,600 businesses within the metro area, is well diversified and reflects the city's status as a regional service and trade center. This growing area is home to five Fortune 500 companies, and approximately 35 other Fortune 500 companies have manufacturing plants or service centers in the metro area. The headquarters of almost 30 insurance companies, over two-dozen direct response/telemarketing centers, and a number of other national and international firms call this city home.

Omaha is large enough to provide a variety of cosmopolitan attractions and small enough to offer a relaxed lifestyle. The community has access to cultural programs that would be of credit to a much larger city, including the professional Omaha Symphony Orchestra and Opera Omaha. There are also 15 theater organizations located here, including the Omaha Community Playhouse, which is the largest community theater in the country. Within the metro area are lakes suitable for boating, sailing, fishing and a number of other activities.

Omaha has a sound infrastructure that makes day-to-day living easier. The city has outstanding academic institutions, including 11 colleges and universities that help make the work force one of the most educated in the country. Omaha also has an excellent healthcare system, with two major medical schools, one dental school, 11 hospitals and several clinics.

Omaha is the place to be if you prefer a city that offers a small-town atmosphere with big-city advantages. A diverse industry base, superb healthcare, great schools, and numerous cultural and recreational activities make Omaha a place you just can't resist.

Charlottesville's history dates back to the 1700s. The city was established in 1762 as a courthouse town serving Albemarle County. Charlottesville was named for Queen Charlotte, wife of George III, and was incorporated as a city in 1888. Today, Charlottesville is a great city, chock full of diverse industry, outstanding educational institutions and, yes, history.

Non-manufacturing industries employ the greatest portion of the area's employed residents, with the University of Virginia and the University of Virginia Health System employing more than 16,000 people. Besides education and healthcare, the manufacturing, tourism, wholesale and retail, finance, insurance and real estate industries are going strong in this area.

In addition to various specialized health services, Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer two excellent medical facilities: the University of Virginia Health System and Martha Jefferson Hospital. The Health System includes a 591-bed hospital, a level one trauma center, and outpatient clinics throughout Charlottesville and neighboring counties. Martha Jefferson Hospital provides full medical and emergency care with 200 beds.

The University of Virginia, also known as "Mr. Jefferson University," is very important to the community. With neoclassical buildings, white porticoes and impressive vistas, the grounds of the University of Virginia are considered to be among the most beautiful in America. Industry is able to take advantage of the excellent research and training facilities the University offers. The School of Engineering and Applied Science, the McIntire School of Commerce, and the Darden School provide a valuable source from which industry and businesses are continually recruiting qualified personnel.

Charlottesville is thriving during this economic downturn with an extremely low unemployment rate, excellent housing costs and a wide variety of industries. Residents also enjoy the area's historic attractions, such as Monticello, the "Little Mountain" home of Thomas Jefferson. All in all, Charlottesville has a little bit of everything for business professionals.

Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder has a special beauty that is complemented by its rich cultural amenities. Boulder, the eighth largest city in the state of Colorado, has a very dynamic economy supported by computer, aerospace, scientific and research firms.

In Boulder, the entrepreneurial spirit lives on. Once known mostly for its think tanks and scientific achievements, Boulder is also now home to start-up companies, Internet companies, and venture capitalists.

The University of Colorado, which includes a 143-acre research park, encourages a productive relationship with the community. These superior educational and cultural resources make Boulder a fulfilling place to live and work.

Boulder County public schools place quite high in national and statewide rankings. In addition to magnet schools designed for students with special needs or interests, Boulder's Open Enrollment Policy allows students to enroll in their own neighborhood school, a different neighborhood's school, or a focus or alternative school.

Hiking, biking, running, in-line skating. Skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding. Rock climbing, canoeing, back-country trekking. Whatever the sport or hobby, Boulder offers a season and a place to enjoy the great outdoors. There are also many interesting sites to see in this fun-filled city. Take a free tour and experience the tea-making process, from package design and production to the newest flavors ready to hit the market, at the world headquarters of Celestial Seasonings.

What also makes Boulder a great place to live and work is its close proximity to Denver. It is a mere 29 miles from Denver, which makes it very convenient for Boulder residents to enjoy the fun of the big city. This, combined with its outstanding education, stable economy and great quality of life, made Boulder a shoe-in for our top 20.