No. 1

Anchorage, Alaska

Companies planning to hire in next quarter: 28%
Best job prospects: Construction, Durable Goods Manufacturing, Nondurable Goods Manufacturing, Wholesale & Retail Trade, Information, Financial Activities, Professional & Business Services, Education & Health Services, Leisure & Hospitality, Other Services, Government
Population: 279,243
Average home price in January: $313,796
Unemployment rate: 8.1%

Anchorage has been somewhat buffered from the recession, but it has been hit by low oil prices. The local economy benefits from the state's rich oil and natural gas supplies, tourism, and U.S. military presence.