2. Washington, D.C.
2009 Rank:: 19
Entry-Level Employers: 90
Average Annual Pay: $59,470
Cost of Living Index: 137.9
Unemployment Rate: 10.4 percent
Thanks to government jobs, which are somewhat recession-proof, Washington's job scene is blossoming almost as nicely as the city’s famous cherry trees in early spring. It is second only to New York in its number of entry-level jobs, which include postings by the CIA and XM Radio. The average annual pay is the highest on the list, but the unemployment rate is relatively high, too. Being home to Fannie Mae (FNMA), Danaher (DHR), Pepco Holdings (POM), and the Washington Post Co. (WPO) gives D.C. some business clout as well. Visiting the National Mall for reflecting by the reflecting pool, free admission to the Smithsonian, and getting a glimpse of the President outside the White House aren’t bad perks either.
Washington, D.C. Jobs on AfterCollege
