Imagine if you could approach investing in cities with the same strategies used in stock market trading.
American cities operate with striking parallels to corporations — they offer a suite of 'services' to their 'shareholders' (the residents), they have 'revenue streams' from various taxes and funding, and their 'market value' fluctuates based on economic health and governance.
Unlike companies, however, cities aren't up for public investment.
But what if they were?
If there was a 'City Exchange,' where you could buy and sell shares in American cities as if they were stocks, which city would you purchase shares in?
Would you invest in the innovation hub of San Francisco, with its tech-driven economy? Or perhaps you'd see value in the steady growth and favorable tax climate of Austin, Texas.
Maybe the resilience and historical significance of Boston would be more appealing, especially given its education and healthcare sectors.
The Stock Dork ran a survey of 3,000 investors to create a 'City Confidence Index'.
It asked respondents:
If cities were publicly traded on stock exchanges, which would you most want to invest in?
South Carolina has five of the most investible cities in America:
North Charleston
As one of the state's major industrial centers, the city is home to key facilities like the Boeing assembly site for the Dreamliner aircraft, and a significant port operation, which contribute to its strong economy.
North Charleston's proximity to Charleston enhances its appeal, providing access to a larger metropolitan area's amenities and economic opportunities.
Charleston
Charleston benefits from its rich history, its access to transportation routes such as Interstate 26 and the Port of Charleston, and its reputation as a cultural and culinary destination.
The city's economy is diverse, with strengths in industries such as tourism, healthcare, education, technology, and manufacturing. Charleston is known for its hospitality industry, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and attractions drawing visitors from around the world.
Mount Pleasant
Situated just across the Cooper River from Charleston, Mount Pleasant benefits from its proximity to the historic city, its access to transportation routes such as the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and Highway 17, and its role as a desirable residential suburb with a growing commercial sector.
The town's economy is diverse, with strengths in industries such as tourism, healthcare, education, technology, and retail. Mount Pleasant is known for its charming historic district, picturesque waterfront, and vibrant dining and shopping scene.
Additionally, the town is home to medical facilities, educational institutions, tech companies, and retail centers, providing job opportunities and economic stability for residents.
Rock Hill
Situated in the northern part of the state, Rock Hill benefits from its proximity to major transportation routes such as Interstate 77, its access to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, and its role as a center for manufacturing, healthcare, education, and recreation in the region.
The city's economy is diverse, with strengths in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, retail, and hospitality.
Columbia
Columbia benefits from its central position within the state, its access to major transportation routes such as Interstates 20 and 26, and its role as the state capital and a center for education, healthcare, government, military, and manufacturing.
The city's economy is diverse, with strengths in industries such as government, education, healthcare, military, manufacturing, and tourism.
The top 10 were:
Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville emerged as the most investible city in the U.S. It offers a unique investment appeal due to its extensive port facilities, which make it a key player in maritime trade. The city's strategic location in Florida also serves as a gateway for business and tourism in the Southeastern United States.
With a growing population, affordable housing, and diverse economic base including finance, healthcare, and logistics, Jacksonville could be a promising investment for those looking at long-term growth and stability.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Known for its beautiful beaches, boating canals, and vibrant tourism industry, Fort Lauderdale could be an attractive investment destination. The city's economy is bolstered by a thriving tourism sector, an expanding aerospace and aviation industry, and a growing technology sector.
Fort Lauderdale's appeal is also enhanced by its proximity to Miami, making it part of a larger, economically dynamic region.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston's strength lies in its prestigious educational institutions and robust healthcare sector. The city came in third place overall. As a historical city, it also benefits from tourism and a rich cultural heritage.
Investment in Boston could be seen as investing in intellectual capital and innovation, with the potential for spillover benefits from research and development in technology, biotechnology, and healthcare sectors.
Albany, New York
Albany, the capital city of New York State, has a diversified economy centered around government, healthcare, and education. With its stable job market, growing tech scene, and rich history, Albany presents an opportunity for steady, risk-averse investment.
The city's ongoing efforts in urban revitalization and its strategic location as a gateway to other major Northeast cities add to its appeal.
Coral Springs, Florida
Coral Springs, in 5th place, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and well-planned neighborhoods. This suburban city, with its focus on community development and quality of life, could attract investors looking for stability and consistent growth.
The city’s economic development initiatives aimed at attracting small and medium-sized businesses also make it an attractive investment choice.
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara, with its picturesque coastline and Mediterranean climate, is a prime location for tourism and high-end real estate. The city’s economy benefits from a mix of education, technology, and healthcare sectors.
Investment in Santa Barbara might appeal to those looking for a combination of luxury real estate, a strong tourism sector, and a stable local economy.
Boynton Beach, Florida
In 7th position, Boynton Beach in South Florida offers a mix of coastal living and urban convenience. The city's redevelopment initiatives, growing retail and business sectors, and attractive real estate market could make it a lucrative option for investors.
Additionally, its proximity to larger cities like West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale adds to its investment appeal.
Providence, Rhode Island
Providence's investment appeal lies in its rich cultural heritage, educational institutions like Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design, and its growing healthcare sector.
The city's ongoing efforts in revitalizing its downtown and waterfront areas, along with its vibrant arts scene, make it an attractive option for those interested in urban redevelopment and cultural investments.
Tucson, Arizona
Tucson's investment potential is anchored in its unique blend of education (home to the University of Arizona), aerospace and defense industries, and a growing technology sector.
The city's affordable cost of living, coupled with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, makes it an attractive option for a diverse range of investors.
Columbus, Ohio
Rounding up the top 10 was Columbus. As the capital city of Ohio, it boasts a diverse and robust economy with strengths in education, healthcare, finance, and technology. The city's large student population, driven by Ohio State University, fuels innovation and a dynamic workforce.
Columbus's ongoing urban development and revitalization projects, combined with a relatively low cost of living, make it an attractive investment destination for those looking at burgeoning midwestern cities.
