Atlanta is a thriving area for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professionals.

STEM Employment Is On The Rise

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that employment in STEM fields is projected to grow by 8.1% between 2024 and 2034. This is three times the rate of non-STEM occupations at 2.7%. The Bureau also projects that STEM professionals will earn a median income of $103,580 over the next 10 years, compared to $48,000 for non-STEM occupations.

As opportunities for STEM workers grow, a recent WalletHub report ranks the best cities for STEM professionals in 2026. Boston was first, Atlanta was second, Seattle was third, Pittsburgh was fourth, and Austin was fifth.

“Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) jobs tend to have high salaries, and job opportunities grow at three times the rate of non-STEM jobs,” said WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo in the report. “We can only expect this to accelerate in the future as new technologies continue to change the employment landscape. The top metro areas for STEM professionals have high-quality schools, an abundance of jobs, and high pay. They’re also great places to live, but since many STEM jobs can be done remotely, you might also consider working in one of these areas while living elsewhere.”

Atlanta Celebrates Second Place Ranking

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens shared a Facebook post reflecting on the city’s feat.

“Atlanta keeps showing the country what’s possible. Proud to share that Atlanta has been named the #2 Best City for STEM Jobs in 2026,” Dickens said in the post. “We’re leading with opportunity, ranking near the top for STEM job openings, earnings, and access to world-class tech education. Our engineers, builders, and innovators can expect strong wages, real career pathways, and a city that’s investing in the future. Atlanta is also among the top cities for gender equity in STEM, helping close the gap.”

According to WalletHub’s report, Atlanta has the third-most job openings for STEM graduates per capita and has the ninth-smallest gender disparity between men and women in the field.

As AFROTECH™ previously reported, Atlanta is also a thriving area for Black-owned businesses. In 2025, the city was ranked the leading hub for Black-owned businesses for the third consecutive year.