Visakhapatnam tops LinkedIn list of fastest-growing job markets among non-metro cities
LinkedIn, in the second edition of its 'Cities on the Rise 2026' report, has identified Visakhapatnam as the fastest-growing employment hub among non-metropolitan cities in India. The report, released on Wednesday, highlights the increasing significance of Tier-2 cities in the country's job market.
The list includes 10 cities: Visakhapatnam, Ludhiana, Surat, Vadodara, Prayagraj, among others. These cities are witnessing accelerated job growth compared to larger metropolitan areas, reflecting a shift in employment patterns.
According to LinkedIn data, nearly 72 per cent of professionals in India are actively seeking new job opportunities this year. The report also notes that 76 per cent of professionals feel job hunting has become more challenging, citing intensified competition and widening skill gaps driven by the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). Since 2022, the average number of applications per job opening has more than doubled.
The findings underscore the evolving dynamics of India's workforce, with non-metro cities emerging as viable alternatives for employment, particularly as remote and hybrid work models gain traction. However, the report does not provide specific data on salary levels or industry breakdowns for these cities.
Experts suggest that the rise of these cities could help decentralise economic opportunities and reduce pressure on overcrowded metros. Policymakers and businesses are likely to take note of these trends to plan future investments and infrastructure development.
