Why Lubbock

As you begin your search for where next to call home, much like Lubbock’s recent standings in a variety of topics, the “Hub City” should be at the top of your list! We already know why Lubbock is a highly esteemed city, but let us share a few notable accolades that consistently name Lubbock, Texas the place to be.

Recently, Texas Tech University (TTU), was nationally recognized as the 9th overall best institution in preparing students for post-graduation life. According to the October 2019 Corporate Recruiter Graduation Ranking Poll, a survey of over 334 nationwide corporate recruiters conducted by Whitman Insight Strategies, Tech grads are included in the most well-prepared of young professionals entering the workforce. 

As the home of the largest healthcare provider in the region, the University Medical Center also serves as a level-1 trauma center, making working in the healthcare sector an available option for many. Other reasons for relocation to Lubbock include higher education. Lubbock is home to Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock Christian University and South Plains College. By investing in students as they earn their degrees, the city has welcomed long-time residents upon graduation day. 

As a tier-1 institution, the quality of education at TTU is world-class. Graduates will find themselves to be competitive applicants who have acquired the West Texas work ethic throughout the duration of their time in the “Hub City.” Coupled with the competency of Lubbock’s workforce, the low unemployment rate, below-average cost of living and the quality of life offered here, young professionals will find Lubbock to be a competitive place to enter the workforce. 

Apartment List named the “Hub City” in the top 10 cities for recent graduates and the city remains a catalytic force in the professional development among the new generation of workers. With strong technology, agriculture, engineering and healthcare industries, a thriving job market and an environment that fosters success, Lubbock is a competitive environment for 2020 graduates.

With a diverse selection of entry-level jobs throughout the varying industries, finding a position that is the perfect fit will come with ease. As the hub of West Texas and Eastern New Mexico, the industry continues to thrive, paving the way for the next generation of ready and skilled workers.

A strong labor force is not the only asset welcoming new residents and workers to the city. Lubbock’s quality of life is unmatched. Big city resources paired with a small-town feel is the perfect dichotomy. Business Insider took a close look at the U.S. Census Bureau and found Lubbock in the top 10 cities where people are moving to. Texas’ population has been steadily and rapidly increasing over the past decade and Lubbock has gotten in on the action. Potential residents are able to confront an expansive list of options when choosing what sector of work is best suitable for them in Lubbock. 

Lubbock is also known as a place that fosters the entrepreneurial spirit, and now, the city is recognized for its support of women entrepreneurs. Recently, Inc.com reported on the findings by Fundera, a business loan comparison site, that placed Lubbock in the top 15 cities for women entrepreneurs in 2020. Coming in at number 13 is no small feat for this mid-sized, West Texas metro. After analyzing the percentage of the female workforce that is self-employed, the size of the earnings gap between entrepreneurs of different genders, housing costs, taxes, the education level of the workforce, and local job growth of the largest 100 cities in the United States, it was concluded that the “Hub City” is among the hottest metro areas women entrepreneurs should consider when looking to set up shop. In this era of girl power and female empowerment, the 806 offers diverse, glass-ceiling-shattering opportunities around every corner. 

With a diverse selection of resources available to those wanting to open their doors to the “Hub City”, including the Texas Tech University Innovation Hub at Research Park and the many grants offered through the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance (LEDA) and Market Lubbock, Inc., starting a business is now more than ever an attainable and realistic venture for boutique owners and artists alike. 

After evaluating 100 large cities across the U.S. based on the length of the average workweek, business survival among new companies, human capital availability, access to higher education in the area, office affordability and labor costs, Lubbock ranked in the top 25 best large cities to start a business in a study conducted by WalletHub. 

Part of what makes Lubbock a business-friendly climate is the affordable cost of living. The overall cost of living is 91.5% allowing workers to save more of their income. Housing costs are also affordable, making the American dream is undoubtedly attainable in Lubbock, Texas to the youngest generation of professionals. Ranked No.1 in the state and No. 14 in the nation by improvenet.com, just over 15% of millennials in the “Hub City” are homeowners. With a national average of 11% in cities with populations over 150,000 residents, Lubbock’s above-average numbers are just one of the many qualifiers for making our city an ideal destination for the under-35 workforce. 

Lubbock’s community-based mentality may be what draws in our newest residents, but it is our average of 265 days of sunshine, affordability, proximity, family-friendly amenities and a variety of opportunities available that keeps them here. With an average 15-minute commute to anywhere in the city, awarded as a top city to raise a family, a top-rated community for work-life balance, Lubbock, Texas serves as a conduit for innovation and success.

The ever-growing industry sectors such as technology and education offer a position available to anyone interested in heading out west. When looking at where to relocate or jumpstart your career in the Lone Star State, consider the “Hub City.” That is something we can raise a glass of West Texas wine to. 

“We are excited we have our own people right here in Lubbock, as well as people who don’t live in Lubbock, that are seeing there is great potential in our downtown.”

John Osborne
Lubbock Economic Development Alliance