The architecture profession is more promising in cities that are experiencing an increase of population, whereas in cities that are decreasing in population (Detroit) the architecture profession is bare and not promising. There are exceptions as some cities are stable population wise but increasing in economic opportunities. Therefore the following list is based on the opportunity growth rather than just the population growth. The population distribution is changing as more people are moving South, perhaps to escape the unforgivable climate. Other factors include cheaper taxes, job growth and an all-around better economic status of the area.
1. Austin, Texas
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 6.1%
Population growth rate: 2.8%
Current MSA population: 1.8 million
Median income: $56,613
2. Dallas
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 5%
Population growth: 2.2%
Current population: 6.23 million
Median income: $55,526
3. San Jose, CA
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 4.7%
Population growth: 0.9%
Current population: 1.88 million
Median income: $83,551
4. Houston
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 6.1%
Population growth: 2%
Current population: 6.23 million
Median income: $55,297
5. Salt Lake City
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 4.4%
Population growth: 1.5%
Current population: 1.16 million
Median income: $65,405
6. Raleigh NC
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 3.7%
Population growth: 3.8%
Current population: 1.21 million
Median income: $58,023
7. Seattle
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 3.7%
Population growth: 1.2%
Current population: 3.54 million
Median income: $65,405
8. San Francisco
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 3%
Population growth: 0.9%
Current population: 4.4 million
Median income: $76,405
9. San Antonio
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 3.7%
Population growth: 2.1%
Current population: 2.25 million
Median income: $47,864
10. Atlanta
Projected economic growth rate, 2011-2016: 3.5%
Population growth: 1.7%
Current population: 5.4 million
Median income: $55,068
