Interning in a big city offers a unique blend of professional growth and personal adventure. This guide explores how to select the right city for your internship based on industry alignment, cost of living, transportation, and lifestyle preferences. It also highlights the top internship cities and types of internships available across various industries. From boosting professional development to experiencing vibrant city life, interning in a major metro area opens doors to invaluable opportunities. Learn how to navigate housing options and make the most of your urban internship experience for a summer you'll never forget.
Choosing Where to Intern
Imagine spending your summer as an intern in one of North America's bustling metropolitan cities. Days spent at a skyscraper downtown immersed in your industry, then stepping out into a lively city full of endless entertainment, culture, and energy. There's no experience quite like an internship in a major metro area.
You'll gain valuable professional development while having the summer of a lifetime in a new city. Whether you want fast-paced startup hustle, opportunities with Fortune 500s, government work in DC, media and fashion in NYC, or biotech and high tech out West - big cities offer a world of opportunities.
An urban summer internship can launch your career and be an unforgettable chapter in your young professional journey. This guide covers factors to weigh when selecting a city, housing considerations, popular internship industries, and the perks you will enjoy in a summer spent in the big city. Let's explore how to make the most of this summer opportunity!
There are numerous major cities that offer awesome opportunities for internships. How do you select the right location for you? Here are key factors to consider when deciding where to intern:
Align With Your Industry & Career Goals
The top consideration is whether the city has a strong presence of companies in your target industry. For example, Washington DC has a major government and policy focus while Boston leads in biotech, healthcare, and higher education. Chicago dominates in finance, manufacturing, and professional services while New York and Los Angeles are great hubs for media. Make a list of your dream companies or types of organizations you want to intern with and see which metro areas give you the most options. The right city can help launch your career path.
Consider the Cost of Living
Big cities generally have higher costs of living compared to smaller towns. When selecting a location, take time to research typical prices for housing options. Also look at transportation costs for getting around, as well as common expenses like groceries, dining out, and entertainment.
Compare the minimum wage and average internship salary ranges in each area too. Can you reasonably manage living costs and expenses based on what interns are paid in that city? Knowing your available budget upfront is crucial.
Here are the top 9 highest paying cities to internship in, and their respective hourly wage:
Top 9 Highest Paying Internship Cities in 2024 (Source: Indeed)
- Boston, MA $23.08
- Chicago, IL $22.54
- Houston, TX $22.12
- Dallas, TX $21.97
- Atlanta, GA $21.83
- Los Angeles $21.40
- New York, NY $19.39
- Philadelphia, PA $18.87
- Washington, DC $18.17
Consider the Commute & Transportation
Public transit is usually readily available in big cities. But be sure to look at coverage maps and commute times from residential neighborhoods to the main office districts. You want housing with reasonable transit access to your internship for a sustainable daily routine.
Driving yourself or using rideshares can work too but will likely cost more than public transit passes. Factor in parking costs and traffic levels as well when weighing that option.
Match Lifestyle Preferences
Every major city has its own distinct vibe and character. Think about what sort of lifestyle you want outside of work and internship hours. Cities like New York and Los Angeles are famous for world-class arts, culture, nightlife, and entertainment scenes. For outdoor adventurers, places like Denver, Seattle, and San Francisco provide easy access to scenic hiking trails through mountains and plenty of rock-climbing spots just a short drive away. These western cities often have milder summer weather too, ideal for being active outdoors.
On the other hand, if you prefer strolling through charming neighborhoods, shopping, and exploring local dining, cities like Boston, Chicago, and Washington D.C. have endless options. Their walkable areas are filled with boutiques, cafes, cultural institutions, summer street festivals, and tucked away gems to discover.
No matter if you're an outdoor thrill seeker, budding foodie, culture enthusiast, or urban explorer at heart, find a city that suits your interests and needs for work-life balance.
Weigh Job Prospects Post-Grad
An added benefit of interning in a city is having the option to stay for full-time work after graduation. In fact, according to an article published by The Wall Street Journal, “A 2019 survey of 262 employers with internship programs found that 70% offered the students a chance to return; 80% of those interns accepted the job offers, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, which conducted the research.” That being said, be sure to research the overall job prospects and economic health of your target industries in cities you're considering beyond the summer.
Look at economic indicators like job growth projections, unemployment rates, and labor force participation rates. Sites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Sperling’s Best Places provide data on job markets in metro areas.
Also, evaluate the presence of major companies in your industry along with startups and mid-sized firms that are rapidly expanding. Some cities foster more entrepreneurship and innovation than others.
Consider the broader demographics too. Are populations of young professionals growing or declining in cities you're evaluating? Is there ongoing investment in infrastructure, real estate, arts and culture? Growing cities signal strong economic fundamentals. Think in terms of where your internship experience can lead you post-graduation.
Do your research to find the right city for you. Make a list of industries and companies you're interested in to see which cities offer the most options. Talk to peers who have interned in different locations to hear their experiences first-hand.
By evaluating cities based on these key factors, you can make an informed decision about the best place to launch your career. The perfect internship location awaits!
Types of Internships in a Big City
Nearly every industry has a presence in big cities, so the possibilities for internships are vast. Here are some of the top positions students seek out and what you can gain from them:
- Business - Marketing internships allow you to help strategize campaigns, conduct market research, and analyze data. Finance internships provide hands-on learning about financial modeling, valuations, and reporting. Accounting internships teach you auditing, bookkeeping, taxes, and other technical skills. Human resources internships offer experience in recruitment, training, compliance, and employee relations.
- Tech - Software engineering interns code, debug, and test applications. IT interns assist with systems, networks, databases, and tech support. Data science interns collect, clean, analyze and interpret large datasets. All teach invaluable programming, analytics, and problem-solving abilities.
- Media - Journalism interns research stories, interview sources, and write articles. Film/TV interns provide production assistance, script coverage, and administrative support. Music industry interns work for record labels, venues, or festivals in PR, artist relations, and concert promotion. All offer immersion into creative fast-paced environments.
- Healthcare - Hospital administration interns manage projects, conduct patient experience surveys, and support operations. Public health research interns help with literature reviews, data analysis, report writing, and community health initiatives. Both allow you to make an impact in healthcare.
- Government/Non-profit - Campaign organizing interns recruit volunteers, host events, and get out the vote. Legal aid interns assist with research, intake interviews, document drafting, and client relations to help serve those in need. Both allow you to gain purpose-driven experience.
The right internship can help you gain hard skills in your field of interest and provide networking opportunities to jumpstart your career. An internship in a major metro lets you thrive!
The Perks of Interning in a Big City
Interning in a major metro area has some great perks. Here's why you should consider a big city for your internship experience.
Experience the Energy of a Bustling City
If you've never lived away from home, a summer in a new city can help you gain confidence and independence. You will meet diverse people and try new things outside your comfort zone. It is a chance to experience a fresh environment before starting your career.
Big cities have distinct neighborhoods and communities to explore. You can find one that suits your lifestyle - artsy, hipster, bustling, or laid-back. Walkable neighborhoods allow you to soak in the culture and sights on your commute or time off.
Boost Your Professional Development
Major companies are headquartered in big cities. This means more internship opportunities with prestigious firms that look great on a resume. You will work with expert professionals and gain hands-on experience using industry-leading tools and techniques. The fast pace also allows interns to take on more responsibilities and challenges.
Enjoy Exciting Amenities and Entertainment
An internship is even more memorable when you can enjoy the city's energy and make new friends. Participate in summer activities like festivals, concerts, or sports games to connect with fellow interns and locals. The fun memories will stay with you long after your internship ends.
So do not just search for any internship, search for the right city experience too! Finding a way to balance personal and professional experiences makes an internship in a big city incredibly rewarding.
Types of Intern Housing in a Big City
Finding suitable housing is a big piece to consider. This step is crucial to having a great experience. Here are tips on the best options to search for intern housing in a big city:
Housing Stipend or Corporate Housing
Before you start a general housing search, if you are in contact with potential employer(s), inquire if the company provides any housing assistance. Many companies aim to make relocating easier for their interns.
Some employers offer housing stipends to help cover rent costs. These could range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 per month. Other companies partner with corporate housing providers to secure discounted rental rates at specific apartment communities for interns.
Don't overlook this potential benefit! During the interview process, ask the recruiter or HR coordinator if the company provides any relocation funds or corporate housing leads. Having your future employer's assistance can go a long way in reducing your summer housing expenses.
If you need to find housing independently, multiple options exist for securing affordable intern accommodations in a big city. Start your search early, as demand increases closer to summer. Here are a few options:
Many colleges offer affordable dorm and student apartment housing to interns in the summer since this space is vacant during the off-semester season. You can start researching university housing in your internship city on sites like Intern Housing Hub. This platform makes it easy for you to fill out a simple form that puts you into contact with the university’s housing office to inquire about availability or begin the application process. There are many benefits to exploring the on-campus housing route. These include things like living amongst other summer interns and students, conveniences of having a dining hall on-site, well-equipped gym, laundry, parking, public transit, the safety of campus police and housing staff, and the affordability of the rooms being furnished, and all living expenses covered in the housing fee. Just be aware of early application deadlines and of hard check-in/out dates that the campus may enforce.
Not sure if you will qualify to live in campus housing for the summer? The requirements you need to meet are 18+ years old, proof of internship, and proof of enrollment at a college/university. As long as these three things check out, you are eligible to live on-campus during your summer internship.
Traditional Apartment Rentals
Scour rental listing sites like Apartments.com to find apartments that fit your budget and needs. Look for furnished options that offer short-term or month-to-month leases if you only need housing for the summer. Ask about tenant requirements, parking, utilities, amenities, and access to public transit. Tour the top contenders in-person before signing a lease.
Short-Term Rentals
Booking a short-term rental on Airbnb or VRBO gives you more flexibility if you are not sure of exact dates yet. Depending on availability, you may need to bounce around to different units for a couple weeks or months at a time if you choose this option. Opt for hosts with strong reviews and be aware of the neighborhood and safety rating of the area you are considering moving to. Factor in cleaning fees, deposits, and house rules. Determine how long the commute would be to your internship location also.
The Big Takeaways
So, when you are deciding on which major city to relocate to for the summer, make sure it aligns with your goals and interests. Finding an internship that excites you combined with the energy of urban life is a summer experience not to miss.
You'll come away with new professional skills, networking connections, and a preview of potential career paths once you graduate. An internship in a bustling metro will shape your independence, confidence, and worldview as you prepare for your future.
So don't just search for any internship - find one that matches your aspirations in a city you're thrilled to call home for the summer. Follow tips to secure affordable housing, and you'll be set. The urban adventure awaits, so take the leap this summer into an unparalleled opportunity to dive into your industry and an exciting new city!