This ranking is based on eight metrics, organized into four categories: concentration, which is the number of software developers per 1,000 workers in the metro area; prosperity, as measured by the regional price parity-adjusted average salary for developers in the area, the growth of wages from 2010-14, and job growth over the same span; talent, based on the number computer science degrees awarded per 10,000 workers, the percentage of of the over-25 population with computer or math degrees, and the replacement rate of IT degree holders in 2014; and the amount of venture capital investment per employee in 2015. Concentration received a 30% weighting with the remaining seven factors being equal at a 10% weighting. The study was conducted by BW Research Partnership for the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corp.
No. 6: Baltimore-Towson, MD Concentration: 13.0 software developers per 1,000 employees