Visakhapatnam Leads Non-Metro Indian Cities in Job Market, LinkedIn Finds

LinkedIn’s second‑edition “Cities on the Rise” report ranks Visakhapatnam as the top non‑metro Indian city for job‑market momentum, followed by Ludhiana, Surat, Vadodara and Prayagraj. The research shows that 72 % of Indian professionals are actively looking for new roles and 76 % say the search has become harder, citing increased competition and widening AI‑related skill gaps. Applications per open position have more than doubled since early 2022.

The report highlights that emerging cities are expanding beyond traditional industries. Visakhapatnam is combining its port, pharma and manufacturing base with major AI, data‑centre and technology investments. Ludhiana is adding steel, aviation and hospitality to its manufacturing sector, Surat is moving beyond textiles and diamonds into startups, exports and real estate, and Vadodara is attracting technology, engineering and enterprise investment alongside chemicals and machinery. LinkedIn career expert Nirajita Banerjee advises job‑seekers to consider these location‑specific growth trends when planning their careers.