In terms of the Niche ranking, the high number of universities (Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are both located in Cambridge; the greater Boston area is home to 54 institutions of higher educations) accounts for the three factors with greatest difference between Anchorage and Cambridge: percent of population aged 25 - 34, millennial newcomers, and higher education rate. Remove those, and although Cambridge still comes out ahead, the gap is significantly closed. And, Anchorage has a lot more to offer than just restaurants, bars, and coffee shops (although I’m shocked that we didn’t receive an A+ for access to coffee shops!).
Ryann Swalling, an architect with KPB Architects, is the chair of the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professional Group (YPG) and is also a member of the Chamber’s board of directors. She says that YPG (open to ages 21 - 39) offers members lateral networking, career advancement skills, and opportunities to build their self confidence in the business world. “It’s incredible to see how many driven, inspiring, and determined young adults in Anchorage are interested in investing in our business community; these are tomorrow’s leaders.” By championing the growth of YPG members, the Chamber is strengthening the personal and professional relationships that create a sense of well-being and connectedness, both reasons people choose to stay in a community.
A young professional and millennial herself, Ryann chose to move back to Anchorage after college to be part of the city’s redevelopment, and says that as a designer she’s had access to diverse project opportunities that she wouldn’t have found in a bigger city. Shawn Rivera, a 29 year old systems analyst for Municipal Light and Power and co-chair of the advisory council for United Way’s Emerging Leaders agrees that Anchorage offers unparalleled opportunity, and says that “Nothing is out of reach; although it’s expensive to live here it’s worth it - you can approach anyone for help and advice.” He also sites the friendliness of residents, arts and culture, and easy access to outdoor adventure and nature as reasons he loves living here.
The Anchorage Economic
Development Corporation’s (AEDC) work to make Anchorage the number one city in America to Live, Work, and
"the high number of universities accounts for the three factors with greatest difference between Anchorage and Cambridge"