24. Michigan
Population: 9,995,915
Capital: Lansing
Percent holding advanced degrees: 11.5
Median household income: $52,668
Michigan
With an economy largely dependent on the manufacturing of automobiles, Michigan faces a fluctuating economic crisis, with some degree of an upsurge in recent years. In response to economic instabilities, the government has made efforts to attract alternative manufacturing industries to the state.
The response has been positive, with a number of high tech research and development facilities complimenting the influx of high tech manufacturing plants. The result has led to a measurable increase in job creation, particularly for individuals holding advanced degrees.
23. Utah
Population: 3,161,105
Capital: Salt Lake City
Percent holding advanced degrees: 11.8
Median household income: $65,325
Utah
Another state with a highly diverse economy, Utah’s mining and agricultural sectors have seen the addition of tourism, manufacturing, finance, and transportation industries. Salt Lake City is considered a regional financial hub, hosting many large enterprise offices. These additional industries proved fortuitous when the agricultural industry saw a fall in the latter half of the 20th century.
In the 21st century, Utah is ranked highly in the nonfuel mineral production sector, lending to the development of specialized jobs, creating ample opportunities for those with relevant degrees. Sadly, the state ranks extremely poorly on the use of renewable energy, with coal and natural gas dominating power production. This has led to a small but steadily growing demand for renewable energy, welcoming the work of educated professionals.
