Bloomington-Normal rated 3rd best destination for college grads

Posted on May 25, 2016
Downtown Bloomington
Bloomington-Normal received high marks for arts and entertainment in a new study. (WJBC File Photo)

By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – Bloomington-Normal is one of the best places to find a job after graduating college, according to a study by the American Institute for Economic Research.

The AIER Employment Destinations Index lists Bloomington behind only Iowa City, Iowa and Lawrence, Kansas among the smallest metro areas for the best destinations for college grads.

Bloomington mayor Tari Renner tells WJBC’s Scott Laughlin surveys like this can be helpful tool in economic development.

PODCAST: Listen to Scott’s interview with Renner on WJBC.

“When those kinds of things happen, we try to milk them for all they are worth and more,” Renner said. “That’s one of the critical things is being a booster for your city and making sure you achieve the greatest economic potential and growth that you can.”

The surveys ranks metro areas based on economics, quality of life and racial and ethnic diversity.

The survey said Bloomington “is a hub of activity surrounded on all sides by rolling green farmland.” It ranks second in arts and entertainment with venues including the Castle Theatre, Connie Link Amphitheater and several art studios.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].

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