Bullish on jobs? These 10 cities are.

With a population of 116,000, Lawrence experienced a 16 percent growth spurt from 2000 to 2009. The city’s demographics are tied intrinsically to the University of Kansas, which had an overall enrollment of 28,718 students last fall. Almost 95 percent of Lawrence’s residents have a high school diploma; over half have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Professional and related occupations account for more than a third of all jobs in Lawrence, compared with 22.7 percent nationwide. The city’s housing market is strong, with a median value of $172,900, $50,000 more than the state average. In 2011, Parents & Colleges advice website named Lawrence (again) as one of America’s 10 best college towns, citing the city’s public art exhibits, the Lawrence Arts Center, Kansas River activity opportunities, and the city’s 50 parks.