25 Most Beautiful City Skylines in the U.S., Ranked by GDP

A city's majestic skyline may draw us in with its beauty and energy, but the first glance is only skin deep. These city skylines are not only some of the most majestic in the country. The cities, themselves, all have something wonderful to offer prospective residents. 

If you're looking to relocate, one or more of the cities on the list may have something you're looking for when it comes to work-life balance.

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

25. Charleston Skyline

Population: 156,255

GDP: $46 billion

Bottom Line: Charleston

Once the fourth-largest city in colonial America, Charleston, South Carolina, is home to the first museum, public college and playhouse in the country. While not laden with skyscrapers, Charleston is uniquely pretty and inviting.

Today, its size is eclipsed by bigger places like New York and Los Angeles, but Charleston is home to employers in the aerospace, automotive, IT, defense, energy, engineering, and life sciences sectors. 

Joint Base Charleston (the Air Force base) has the most employees in the area, with more than 22,000 workers. The Medical University of South Carolina employs 13,000 people.

While Boeing's headquarters are in Chicago, its Charleston plant employs about 7,000 people.

Where to stay: Charleston Marriott

Book flights: To Charleston

Rent a car: In Charleston

24. Honolulu Skyline

Population: 353,706

GDP: $69 billion

Bottom Line: Honolulu

The sheer beauty of Hawaii (and Honolulu's skyline) is unmatched, which is why tourism continues to be one of the biggest industries for this state. 

Defense, agriculture and fishing also drive the state's economy. Aloha Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and American Savings Bank are just a few businesses operating out of Honolulu.

Where to stay: Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

Book flights: To Honolulu 

Rent a car: In Honolulu

 

23. New Orleans Skyline

Population: 392,031

GDP: $80 billion

Bottom Line: New Orleans

Founded in 1718 by explorer Jean Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, the Louisiana city was, at that time, merely a trading camp on the Mississippi and has always had a very French flavor, making it unlike any city in the United States. 

The first "skyscraper" in New Orleans was erected in 1807 and was a whopping four stories. It is still in use today in the French Quarter on the corner of Royal and St. Peter Streets. 

If you're thinking of looking for a job in the city, the top industries are chemical, petroleum, coal products and tourism. 

Where to stay: The Saint Hotel

Book flights: To New Orleans

Rent a car: In New Orleans

22. Las Vegas Skyline

Population: 653,533

GDP: $122 billion

Bottom Line: Las Vegas

If you love the feel of New York or Los Angeles, but not all the time, you can move to Las Vegas, Nevada, which has all the elements of the major coastal cities but (depending on where you live) also the quiet of a suburban or rural area. The Vegas Strip is a big part of the skyline and when you're coming to the city from the vastness of the desert, it's simply breathtaking. 

Entertainment, gambling and tourism are Vegas's main industries, but IT, manufacturing and aerospace are also major employers. Companies based in Sin City include Zappos, Allegiant and Asurion.

New businesses and neighborhoods are cropping up daily as the city continues to grow. 

Where to stay: Vdara Hotel and Spa

Book flights: To Las Vegas

Rent a car: In Las Vegas 

21. Nashville

Population: 707,091

GDP: $136 billion

Bottom Line: Nashville

Tennesse's Music City has grown exponentially over the past 20 years, as people have flocked to the city due to its inexpensive cost of living and business opportunities.

Of course, the music business is what brings people here, but healthcare, transportation, banking, and finance are also driving industries.

HCA Healthcare, Dollar General, Community Health Systems, Delek US Holdings and Tractor Supply are just some of the businesses headquartered here.

Where to stay: Thompson Nashville

Book flights: To Nashville

Rent a car: In Nashville 

20. Cincinnati Skyline

Population: 311,791

GDP: $141 billion

Bottom Line: Cincinnati

The city's panoramic skyline sits next to the Ohio River and the historic Roebling Suspension Bridge and has welcomed an influx of new residents in the past few years. Why? Cincinnati is relatively inexpensive compared to other major cities, it has a massive park system, diverse neighborhoods, and there is a booming job market. 

Healthcare is one of the main industries in the Queen City. UC Health and Tri Health employ thousands. Manufacturing is also big here. Mitsubishi Automotive Electric America and Toyota Boshoku America are also major employers. 

Where to stay: Hyatt Cincinnati

Book flights: To Cincinnati 

Rent a car: In Cincinnati

19. Pittsburgh Skyline

Population: 302,425

GDP: $153 billion

Bottom Line: Pittsburgh

If you like bridges, look no further than Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Its unofficial moniker is the City of Bridges because it has nearly 450 of them, which is more than any other city in the world.

From the late 1800s through the mid-1900s, Pittsburgh was a major center of industry in the United States and powered the country's economy with its production of raw materials. Due to the collapse of the steel industry, it fell on hard times, but it's also making a comeback.

Today, its main industries are high-tech, manufacturing and construction.

Where to stay: Omni William Penn

Book flights: To Pittsburgh 

Rent a car: In Pittsburgh 

18. Portland Skyline (Oregon)

Population: 666,249

GDP: $164 billion 

Bottom Line: Portland

When you first see the Rose City's skyline against the backdrop of Mount Hood, you'll immediately realize that it is the perfect blend of urban meets outdoors. You can leave your home in downtown and get to the beach, the mountains or lush green forests within 90 minutes.

Portland is a small city that is easy to navigate. Its public transportation system (light rail, streetcar, buses) makes it easy to not have a car, or you can easily cover it by bike. The city is home to Voodoo Doughnut, Powells Books, Wieden+Kennedy, Nike and Columbia Sportswear. 

Where to stay: The Nines

Book flights: To Portland

Rent a car: In Portland 

17. Austin Skyline

Population: 996,147

GDP: $168 billion

Bottom Line: Austin

The fourth-most populated Texas city, Austin combines the beauty of nature with the fast pace of the big city. Austin's motto "Keep Austin Weird" shows how proud its residents are of its uniqueness.

The Music Capital of the World not only has entertainment as one of its main industries, but it's also a major tech center, with Apple and Amazon employing thousands. Dell, Oracle and Tesla are based here as well. 

Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn

Book flights: To Austin 

Rent a car: In Austin 

16. St. Louis Skyline

Population: 298,034

GDP: $170 billion

Bottom Line: St. Louis

The St. Louis arch is the focal point of this Missouri city's glorious skyline. If you dig a little deeper, you'll find that the people that live there say it has a big-city feel with small-town charm. The cost of living is fairly low, too. 

If you're looking for work in the Gateway to the West, the main industries are aviation, biotechnology, chemicals, financial services, life sciences, medical research, plant sciences, refining, telecommunications and transportation. 

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency St. Louis

Book flights: To St. Louis 

Rent a car: In St. Louis 

15. Charlotte Skyline

Population: 903,211

GDP: $170 billion

Bottom Line: Charlotte

Charlotte is one of two cities growing by leaps and bounds in North Carolina (Raleigh is the other) as people are flocking here from larger cities because of the lower cost of living and a more relaxed lifestyle in mind. 

Banking and finance, manufacturing, energy, automotive, healthcare, tech and retail are drivers for this city's economy. Some big business names are based here, including NASCAR, Wells Fargo, Dillard's and Dollar Tree. 

Where to stay: Sheraton Charlotte

Book flights: To Charlotte 

Rent a car: In Charlotte 

14. Detroit Skyline

Population: 624,177

GDP: $268 billion

Bottom Line: Detroit

Admittedly, Detroit, Michigan, has seen some tough times in the past 50-odd years, but the city seems to be making a bit of a comeback. Real estate prices are lower here than in major cities. If you're looking for homes or office space downtown that needs a little love, there are plenty of buildings with old-school character to be had here.

The Motor City's main industries are now defense, logistics, healthcare, and IT. And believe it or not, the "Big Three" — GM, Ford, and Chrysler— are still based in this city. 

Where to stay: Siren Detroit

Book flights: To Detroit 

Rent a car: In Detroit

13. Denver Skyline

Population: 738,594

GDP: $227 billion

Bottom Line: Denver

Colorado's Mile High City is one of the most picturesque and walkable towns in the U.S. If you're an outdoors-minded person, this may be the place for you, as Denver boasts 200 parks within city limits and 20,000 acres of parkland in the surrounding areas. 

Denver's main industries are aerospace, bioscience, broadcast and telecommunications, energy, financial services, healthcare and wellness, and IT.

Should you wish to start a career in Denver Boston Market, Coors, Jolly Rancher, and Frontier Airlines are just a few of the businesses based here. 

Where to stay: Hyatt Place Cherry Creek

Book flights: To Denver 

Rent a car: In Denver 

12. Miami Skyline

Population: 450,797

GDP: $389 billion

Bottom Line: Miami

Sunny skies and warm temperatures bring people to Miami, Florida, all year round. The area was first settled in 1566 by Pedro Menéndez de Avilés who claimed it for Spain. The city was founded by Julia Tuttle, who convinced railroad tycoon Henry Flagler to extend his railway to the region. In 1896, Miami became a city of just 300 people and has grown quickly since. 

Many major companies have headquarters in Miami, including Cisco, Lennar Corporation, and World Fuel Services. The city's port is also the largest cruise ship port in the world, with over 5 million travelers making the journey each year. 

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency

Book flights: To Miami

Rent a car: In Miami 

11. Boston Skyline

Population: 687,257

GDP: $413 billion 

Bottom Line: Boston

Boston plays a big part in colonial American history. It was here in Massachusetts that the famed Tea Party and Paul Revere's Midnight Ride took place. 

Today, the city boasts strong employment in biotechnology, engineering, higher education, maritime trade, information technology, finance, and tourism. Some of the industries headquartered here include Iron Mountain, Wayfair and Gillette.

Where to stay: W Boston

Book flights: To Boston 

Rent a car: In Boston 

10. Atlanta Skyline

Population: 514,457

GDP: $432 billion

Bottom Line: Atlanta

Founded in 1837, the formerly named town of Marthasville has become one of the biggest cities in the U.S. The Peachtree City is now a major transportation hub and is home to the world's busiest airport.

Some big multinational companies with headquarters in Atlanta include Coca-Cola, Home Depot, UPS, AT&T, Delta Airlines and Chik-fil-A.

The Georgia city is also known as the "Hollywood of the South." In 2018, 455 movies and shows were produced in and around the city.

Where to stay: Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Book flights: To Atlanta 

Rent a car: In Atlanta 

9. Seattle Skyline

Population: 762,687

GDP: $444 billion

Bottom Line: Seattle

This Pacific Northwest city was founded in 1851 by the Denny Party, but it didn't really gain popularity until the 1896 Klondike Gold Rush. 

Today, its famous skyline boasts the Space Needle, and the city is home to famed businesses such as Starbucks, Amazon and Microsoft, which are all headquartered there.

If you like tech, the outdoors, and plenty of rain, this is the place to be.

Where to stay: W Seattle

Book flights: To Seattle 

Rent a car: In Seattle

 

8. Philadelphia Skyline

Population: 1,619,355

GDP: $457 billion

Bottom Line: Philadelphia

Philly, like Boston, is central to this country's beginnings. The first daily newspaper, the first zoo, the first hospital and first medical school in the country were all located in the City of Brotherly Love. It is still a place of innovation today, and its skyline boasts the modern with the historical. 

This Pennsylvania city has a world-renowned medical sector. One out of six doctors in the U.S. is trained here. The city also boasts employers like IBM, Comcast and Lockheed Martin.

Where to stay: Sheraton Philadelphia

Book flights: To Philadelphia 

Rent a car: In Philadelphia 

7. Houston Skyline

Population: 2,345,606

GDP: $489 billion

Bottom Line: Houston

Founded in 1836 by the Allen brothers, Houston is the fourth-largest U.S. city in population but will likely become third in the second half of the 2020s. The Texas city is also the most ethnically diverse in the county with over 145 languages spoken by residents.

Oil and gas, healthcare, biomedical research, and aerospace are driving forces in Houston's economy, and several Fortune 500 companies, including Sysco, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Halliburton, and Occidental Petroleum are all based here. 

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency

Book flights: To Houston 

Rent a car: In Houston

6. Dallas Skyline

Population: 1,325,691

GDP: $524 billion

Bottom Line: Dallas

The third-largest city in Texas and the ninth-largest in the country, Dallas is the largest inland city in the country without a link to a major body of water. Nevertheless, the stunning skyline features "The Ball," a noteworthy staple of the skyline for more than four decades.

The Big D is home to nearly two dozen Fortune 500 companies, including ExxonMobil, Southwest Airlines, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, JCPenney and Texas Instruments. Its biggest industries are defense, financial services, IT, energy and telecommunications.

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency

Book flights: To Dallas 

Rent a car: In Dallas 

5. Washington, D.C., Skyline

Population: 707,109

GDP: $579 billion

Bottom Line: Washington, D.C.

While the city is not filled with high rises, one only has to look at the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Monument, and the Capitol Building among other historical American landmarks to see its majesty.

And if you want a career in national politics, there's only one place to be. However, there are other companies headquartered here, should you want to do something not in politics, directly anyway. Amtrak, the USPS and the American Red Cross all call Washington home.

Where to stay: The Morrow

Book flights: To Washington D.C. 

Rent a car: In Washington D.C 

4. San Francisco Skyline

Population: 887,711

GDP: $594 million

Bottom Line: San Francisco

San Francisco's skyline is a modern downtown that rises up against more modest homes from the turn of the last century, and with Golden Gate partially enveloped in the city's famous fog, it can be quite a site. 

We won't kid you and tell you San Francisco, California, is an easy move. It's very expensive, and rentals are costly and limited. IT, social media, biotech, clean tech and international business are the city's main industries. Twitter, Gap/Old Navy, Pottery Barn, Mother Jones, Williams Sonoma and the Sierra Club are all based in the City by the Bay.

Where to stay: Four Seasons Embarcadero

Book flights: To San Francisco 

Rent a car: In San Francisco 

3. Chicago Skyline

Population: 2,756,546

GDP: $715 billion

Bottom Line: Chicago

Chicago's famed skyline sits next to Lake Michigan and boasts the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower, which held the title as the tallest building in the U.S. for about 25 years), the John Hancock Center, and the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower. The Illinois city is currently the third largest in the U.S. It is home to vibrant industries such as transportation and distribution, manufacturing, publishing, insurance, finance, and food processing. 

Boeing, Motorola, United Airlines and McDonald’s are just some of the 36 Fortune 500 companies that have headquarters here.

Where to stay: The Langham

Book flights: To Chicago

Rent a car: In Chicago 

2. Los Angeles Skyline

Population: 3,919,973

GDP: $1.1 trillion

Bottom Line: Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles wasn't an area people lived after work hours. When the day ended, they'd go to other parts of the California city, and the place was a ghost town. 

But DTLA has had new life breathed into it over the past few decades. While there are still plenty of issues, condo after condo has sprung up (as have skyscrapers), and the restoration of older theaters, restaurants and office buildings is taking place at a record pace.

Virgin Hyperloop, Evite and Joymode are just some of the companies headquartered in the downtown area, and should you choose to venture into Hollywood, Burbank, and beyond, you'll find the headquarters of the major film studios, record companies, aerospace companies, and even tech firms. 

Where to stay: CitizenM

Book flights: To Los Angeles 

Rent a car: In Los Angeles 

1. New York Skyline

Population: 8,930,002

GDP: $1.87 trillion

Bottom Line: New York

The Big Apple, the City that Never Sleeps, the City So Nice, They Named It Twice. You can't beat New York City when it comes to skyline views and pretty much everything else. Sure, living in the city isn't cheap, but the opportunity here is endless. 

The city's main industries are finance, advertising, fashion, and the arts, and there are so many companies headquartered in New York City they are almost too numerous to mention.

But we will anyway — IBM, Deloitte PepsiCo, JPMorgan Chase Co., Citigroup and Conde Nast are just a few names you may be familiar with.

Where to stay: Refinery New York

Book flights: To New York 

Rent a car: In New York