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Which are the best US cities for networking

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Written byVeedushi Bon 25 January 2019

A top destination for international students, workers and entrepreneurs, the USA can boast of its unparalleled economic dynamism and a wide range of opportunities in various fields. Besides, you won't find it hard to adapt there – thanks to its diverse population – and to expand your network. To help you choose wisely, here's an overview of some of the best US cities for networking.

San Francisco

San Francisco
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One of the largest US cities, San Francisco is a major tech hub – which makes it an attractive destination for international students, workers and entrepreneurs. If you're planning your next move to San Francisco, you can expect an excellent quality of life along with a wide range of opportunities in all spheres of life. Are you looking to launch your startup? This city offers a selection of modern and equipped coworking spaces for you to unleash your creative skills. Keep in mind that San Francisco not only has a low unemployment rate but also a highly skilled workforce of different origins. Hosting some of the largest multinational companies in the country, the Bay Area also provides networking opportunities for IT professionals, but that's not all. There's something for everyone, including regular meetups and other events. It's also worth noting that the business culture in San Francisco is rather informal so don't be surprised when your employer, coworkers and business partners start calling you by your first name.

Boston

Boston
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Boston has a lot to offer even though it is less popular than major cities like New York and Los Angeles. With its prosperous economy, low unemployment rate and dynamic workforce, Boston can be the ideal place to settle and work in. Even though fields like high tech and healthcare are quite competitive, the local workforce comprises more than 2,5 million professionals employed in areas like business services, health, education, as well as the large US and multinational companies. Boston also offers many coworking spaces, bars, pubs, restaurants and conference halls that will allow you to expand your network in a friendly atmosphere.

Denver

Denver
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Denver may not be a popular expat destination, but it's full of opportunities and experiences of all kinds. If you're looking to launch your startup in the US, Denver offers a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem as evidenced by the number of startups and small family businesses. And even though wages are lower compared to other major cities like San Francisco and New York, it can be the ideal place to boost your career in. Jobs are plentiful in multinational and local companies, as well as in education and food. Regarding networking, regardless of your preferences, you can take part in job fairs and regular events, meetups and wellbeing sessions, some of which are entirely dedicated to women.

Washington DC

Washington DC
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The US capital city holds a lot of surprises for newcomers including a vibrant labour market and opportunities in various fields. Microsoft, Facebook and Deloitte are some of the major employers in Washington. But that's not all! Even though the local working culture is quite competitive – which means you will be spending more time at work, but that doesn't mean you won't have an active social life. Besides the city's attraction sites and cultural diversity, you also have pubs, restaurants, bars and cafes where meetups are taking place almost all the time. This will be an opportunity to meet new people and expand your circle which, in turn, will make integration a lot easier. Besides, Washington offers more than 60 coworking spaces with facilities like a conference room and a gym. Would you ask for more?

San Jose

San Jose
Sundry Photography / Shutterstock.com

The largest city in California, San Jose is home to the world-famous Silicon Valley – the favourite place of foreign professionals and tech entrepreneurs in particular. Aside from being the region's cultural, economic, and political capital, San Jose is also one of the wealthiest US cities. San Jose is focused on innovation, research and development, so you might find a lot of opportunities there. Google, Apple, Adobe and Samsung are some of the most significant employers in this city. Regardless of your plans, given the vibrant activity throughout the city, you will also have various networking opportunities including job fairs, professional events, happy hours, breakfasts and cocktail parties, etc.

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About

I hold a French diploma and worked as a journalist in Mauritius for six years. I have over a decade of experience as a bilingual web editor at Expat.com, including five years as an editorial assistant.

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