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Richmond once again landed on LinkedIn's Cities on the Rise list, this time at No. 2.
Why it matters: The professional networking site evaluates midsize metros' job opportunities and workforce talent growth to create the ranking.
What they're saying: LinkedIn says Richmond is on the rise due to its population growth (fastest in the state) and comparative East Coast affordability, plus job and hiring gains.
- Another factor: the region's expanding tech infrastructure via fiber cable connectivity and data center investments.
Yes, but: Tech isn't among the industries leading the region's hiring, according to LinkedIn. The top sectors hiring locally, per its report:
- Credit intermediation, a la Capital One.
- Hospitals and healthcare, like VCU Health, HCA and Bon Secours.
- Higher education — VCU has long been among the region's top employers.
Flashback: LinkedIn's inaugural Cities on the Rise list came out last year with Richmond at No. 13.
- The region's growing "healthtech sector" and landing major manufacturers like Lego were credited for RVA's inclusion in 2025.
Zoom out: Augusta, Georgia, was No. 1 on the 2026 list. Reno, Nevada; North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota, Florida; and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, rounded out the top five.
The bottom line: Richmond might be on the rise, but our local job economy is still powered by the institutions that have been around for decades.
