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The Most Underrated Tech Cities in 2026
As we navigate the evolving landscape of technology and work, certain cities are emerging as underrated tech hubs. These cities not only offer a wealth of job opportunities but also foster vibrant communities for tech professionals. From the number of tech jobs available to growth prospects and educational resources, these cities are ripe for exploration. By the end of this article, you may find yourself considering a move to one of these ten impressive locations.
1. Worcester, Massachusetts
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 6,226
Percent of Tech Workers: 7.0%
Growth Expected: 67.77%
Worcester, Massachusetts, is often overlooked, yet it boasts a robust tech community. With 6,226 tech jobs making up 7% of the workforce, the city’s tech scene is expected to grow by an impressive 67.77%. The presence of reputable tech schools and a supportive startup ecosystem further enhances its appeal.
Worcester Technical High School and Worcester Polytechnic Institute offer education from high school through college, a unique advantage for aspiring tech professionals.
Notable Startups:
- Zephyr Workshop: Game development startup.
- ISLA International: Focuses on sustainable energy solutions for Caribbean islands.
- The Fashion Cookbook: Integrates blogging with image consulting services.
- For All to Play: Supports game development and interactive media.
- Sprezza Technologies: Innovating transportation systems.
- WooConnect: A platform for college students to discover local events.
Worcester’s commitment to nurturing a talented workforce ensures that it remains an underrated gem in the tech industry.
2. Cincinnati, Ohio
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 11,907
Percent of Tech Workers: 8.0%
Growth Expected: 34.60%
Cincinnati, Ohio, may not be the first city that comes to mind for tech, but it should be. With 11,907 tech jobs, representing 8% of the workforce, and a projected growth of 34.6%, it’s clear that this city deserves more recognition.
The local culture, including the vibrant Findlay Market and iconic 19th-century architecture, enhances the appeal of the city’s tech scene.
Learning About Tech:
The Cincinnati Technology Academy offers K-12 education focused on technology, preparing students for the future. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College provides additional pathways for those looking to enter the tech workforce.
Emerging Startups:
Astronomer, a data workflow startup, has been recognized as one of the best tech startups since 2018. Other notable startups include Abre, Actionstreamer, and Clarigent Health, all contributing to Cincinnati’s growing tech landscape.
3. Tempe, Arizona
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 11,690
Percent of Tech Workers: 10.6%
Growth Expected: 26.79%
Tempe, Arizona, is not just known for its vibrant culture and outdoor activities; it’s also a burgeoning tech hub. The city currently offers 11,690 tech jobs, making up 10.6% of the workforce, with growth expected to reach 26.79%.
Several startups have recently relocated from Silicon Valley to Tempe, indicating the city’s rising status in the tech ecosystem.
Educational Opportunities:
Tempe is home to prestigious institutions like Arizona State University and the University of Phoenix, providing ample opportunities for tech education.
Promising Startups:
Alt Thirty Six offers innovative payment technology for digital currencies, while Hownd enhances marketing for businesses by increasing foot traffic and repeat visits.
4. St. Paul, Minnesota
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 12,859
Percent of Tech Workers: 8.0%
Growth Expected: 31.64%
St. Paul, Minnesota, is part of the Twin Cities and is experiencing a tech renaissance. With 12,859 tech jobs, 8% of the workforce, and a projected growth of 31.64%, the city is a fertile ground for tech innovation.
Events like Twin Cities Startup Week and initiatives like 1 Million Cups provide crucial support to entrepreneurs and tech startups.
Education and Resources:
St. Paul is dedicated to tech education, offering programs for all ages. Initiatives like Code Savvy engage youth in coding, while the James J. Hill Center provides a wealth of business resources.
Innovative Startups:
The Invisible Network is revolutionizing job searching by providing anonymous job connections, while BetterYou offers digital wellness coaching to improve online habits.
5. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 7,463
Percent of Tech Workers: 7.0%
Growth Expected: 37.31%
Baton Rouge, known for its rich history, is also home to a burgeoning tech sector. Currently, the city has 7,463 tech jobs, comprising 7% of the workforce, with an anticipated growth of 37.31%.
The establishment of the Louisiana Technology Park highlights the city’s commitment to tech development.
Tech Education:
Institutions like Louisiana Tech University and Remington College offer pathways into the tech industry. The Louisiana Technology Park also provides invaluable resources for startups.
Growing Startups:
Omnidek, which specializes in business software for payroll and invoicing, is one of many startups thriving in Baton Rouge, having raised significant funding for expansion.
6. Baltimore, Maryland
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 23,237
Percent of Tech Workers: 8.1%
Growth Expected: 27.60%
Baltimore, Maryland, is becoming a noteworthy tech city with 23,237 tech jobs, representing 8.1% of the workforce. With a growth forecast of 27.6%, the city offers a promising landscape for tech professionals.
The city’s entrepreneurial spirit is bolstered by its access to talent and lower startup costs, making it an attractive place for new businesses.
Educational Resources:
Local schools, including Towson University and Johns Hopkins University, provide a steady stream of talent for the tech sector.
Innovative Startups:
Clean.io, recognized for its contributions to online safety, and Sonavi Labs, which improves healthcare access through technology, are just two examples of the exciting startups in Baltimore.
7. Spokane, Washington
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 6,054
Percent of Tech Workers: 5.6%
Growth Expected: 63.89%
Spokane, Washington, is increasingly recognized as an underrated tech city, with 6,054 tech jobs constituting 5.6% of the workforce. The city is expected to see remarkable growth of 63.89% in its tech sector.
The influx of startups from major tech hubs highlights Spokane’s potential as a tech destination.
Educational Support:
The University of Washington has established an innovation hub to support local startups, while Spokane Community College offers technical courses to bolster the local workforce.
Promising Startups:
WildRide, known for its app that connects users with local restaurants and bars, is among the startups benefitting from local funding initiatives.
8. Columbus, Ohio
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 37,400
Percent of Tech Workers: 7.9%
Growth Expected: 25.59%
Columbus, Ohio, is home to 37,400 tech jobs, making up 7.9% of its workforce, with growth expected at 25.59%. The city has become a favorable environment for tech startups.
Known for its vibrant parks and cultural richness, Columbus also boasts a strong investment community that supports tech business development.
Educational Institutions:
The presence of Ohio State University ensures a continuous influx of tech talent, while initiatives like Tech Corps promote technology education at a young age.
Notable Startups:
Root Insurance, which leverages data science for personalized auto insurance, and Aver, which simplifies healthcare payment processes, are making waves in Columbus.
9. Wilmington, North Carolina
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 3,582
Percent of Tech Workers: 6.0%
Growth Expected: 36.98%
Wilmington, North Carolina, combines beach living with a growing tech scene, boasting 3,582 tech jobs, which represent 6% of the workforce. The city anticipates a growth rate of 36.98%.
Wilmington’s local startups frequently win accolades at the North Carolina Technology Association Awards, showcasing their innovation and success.
Education and Resources:
With the University of North Carolina Wilmington providing tech education, local talent is increasingly choosing to stay and contribute to the emerging tech ecosystem.
Innovative Startups:
nCino, a cloud banking startup, and COWALA Co., a financial literacy app, are just a few examples of the thriving startups in Wilmington.
10. Des Moines, Iowa
Total Number of Tech Jobs: 6,630
Percent of Tech Workers: 5.9%
Growth Expected: 36.42%
Des Moines, Iowa, is recognized for its vibrant tech community, predominantly supported by the insurance industry. With 6,630 tech jobs, making up 5.9% of the workforce, the city expects a growth rate of 36.42%.
Educational Institutions:
Proximity to Iowa State University ensures that Des Moines retains a local talent pool, further enhancing its entrepreneurial landscape.
Emerging Startups:
Workiva, specializing in cloud-based solutions, and Gross-Wen Technologies, which innovates in water treatment, are examples of successful startups thriving in Des Moines.
In conclusion, the future looks bright for these underrated tech cities. With their growing job markets, educational resources, and supportive startup ecosystems, they are ideal destinations for tech professionals seeking new opportunities. If you’re considering a move, these cities might just be the perfect fit for your career aspirations.
Author
Amanda Postma is a writer for the Zippia Career Advice blog with a focus on creating entertaining content to help you through your job search. She received her BA from the University Of Missouri-Columbia.
