Shaping Futures: Cities Leading the Way in Women’s Progress and Prosperity

Virginia Beach is one of the best cities in the US for women, according to a new study conducted by personal finance website WalletHub.

Methodology

WalletHub evaluated 182 cities, comprising the 150 most populated U.S. cities and at least two of the most densely populated cities in every state.

The analysis focused on two fundamental dimensions: “Women’s Economic & Social Well-Being” and “Women’s Health Care & Safety,” with a strict consideration of only the city proper in each instance, excluding surrounding metropolitan areas.

To gauge these dimensions, WalletHub employed a set of 15 relevent metrics, each assigned specific weights. These metrics were chosen to reflect the core aspects affecting women’s lives, including economic opportunities, healthcare access, safety, and overall well-being.

For the “Women’s Economic & Social Well-Being” category, metrics such as median earnings for female workers, unemployment rate for women, job security, share of women living in poverty, share of women-owned businesses, and the economic influence of women-owned firms were assessed.

The “Women’s Health Care & Safety” category included metrics like abortion policies and access, quality of women’s hospitals, female uninsured rate, preventive healthcare, physical activity rates, prevalence of obesity, suicide rate, life expectancy at birth, and incidents of rape victimization among women.

Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with 100 representing the most favorable conditions for women. The cities were then ranked based on their weighted averages across all metrics. The study utilized data from several sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Guttmacher Institute, U.S. News & World Report, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Results

Columbia, MD, stands is the best city for women this year, securing its position in the study with an impressive total score of 73.96. In the category of Women’s Economic & Social Well-Being, Columbia excelled, clinching the 6th position nationally. This rank underscores the city’s commitment to providing diverse economic opportunities, job security, and equal pay, thereby fostering a thriving environment for professional growth. Additionally, in the Women’s Health Care & Safety category, Columbia secured the 14th position.

Virginia Beach is the 29th best city for women in WalletHub’s study, with a total score of 62.86. In the category of Women’s Economic & Social Well-Being, the city earned the 44th position, reflecting its efforts to provide economic opportunities and support social well-being for women residents. In the Women’s Health Care & Safety category, Virginia Beach attained the 55th rank.

Virginia Beach boasts a thriving job market, offering diverse employment opportunities for women across various sectors. The city is home to numerous initiatives and organizations that support women entrepreneurs and professionals, promoting their economic independence. Efforts to bridge the gender pay gap and ensure workplace equality have further solidified Virginia Beach’s reputation as a hub for women’s economic empowerment.

Virginia Beach stands out with its low crime rates and effective law enforcement measures, providing a secure environment for its residents. The city’s community policing efforts and personal safety resources ensure that women feel safe and protected, fostering a sense of security that is invaluable for personal and professional growth.

Education is a key factor in women’s empowerment. Virginia Beach offers a wide array of educational opportunities, from schools and colleges to vocational training centers, enabling women to pursue their passions and careers. The city also hosts numerous community programs focused on skill development, leadership training, and personal growth, equipping women with the tools they need to succeed.

Virginia Beach’s recognition as one of the best cities for women by WalletHub is a testament to the city’s unwavering commitment to empowering women and nurturing their dreams. By providing economic opportunities, ensuring healthcare accessibility, prioritizing safety, promoting education, and fostering community support, Virginia Beach continues to be a shining example of a city where women can thrive.

Additional Resources: For more information about women-centric initiatives, support networks, and community services in Virginia Beach, please visit the following resources:

• Virginia Beach Women’s Business Center
• Virginia Beach Department of Human Services
• Virginia Beach Women’s Alliance