Greater LEX Listed as a Top Place for STEM Opportunity

Science is the backbone of modern society. From the devices we use on a regular basis to the medicine we take when we have a cold, everything is powered by scientific innovation. In fact, there is such a high demand in this field that the number of STEM jobs in the U.S. alone went up by 31% in the last five years. And, according to BLS data, the numbers are expected to continue surging in the future, as well.

So, to find the top metros that offer science professionals the best opportunities and wages, we examined a series of relevant metrics. Here, we include the number of STEM jobs and establishments to quantify work opportunities and where to find them; the annual wages and local prices to gauge affordability and life quality; and so on. Furthermore, to ensure a fair comparison, we also split the metros into three population categories — large, mid-sized and small. For the full list of metrics, jump to the methodology section.

To get a broader perspective on the matter, we also consulted Associate Professor Lindsay A. Gold (Department of Teacher Education, University of Dayton), Centennial Commission Professor of Liberal Arts Jennifer Glass (Department of Sociology and Population Research Center, University of Texas, Austin), Professor and Co-Director for Engineering Education Aaron C. Clark (Department of STEM Education, NC State University), and Director and Associate Research Professor Michelle Van Noy (School of Management and Labor Relations, Rutgers University).

Big STEM Moves in Mid-Sized Cities: Durham Packs the Employers, Omaha Tops Pay Growth, Lexington Cracks the Top 5

Lexington, KY Ranked as the #5 Mid-Sized City for Big STEM Moves

There was a significant increase in the paychecks of Lexington’s STEM professionals during the 2019-2024 timeframe. As a matter of fact, the average yearly wage shot up by almost one-third to secure second place for this specific metric. Currently, jobs in the science department earn experts an average of $97,280 annually.

There’s also a clear commitment to higher education among the local community. Lexington ranked fifth in 2023 for PhD completions, handing out 46 diplomas per 100,000 residents. As for work opportunities, almost 14% of the total jobs in this metro are in STEM.

To read the full article and see the full rankings click here. For more information about opportunities in Greater Lex visit the Work Here page.