• Seven out of 10 have a black mayor.
• Half are located on the East Coast.
• All have a black population of at least 25%.

Survey respondents were generally satisfied or very satisfied with their earnings potential and the overall cost of living in their locations.
Survey respondents were generally dissatisfied with the quality of their public schools, the availability of daycare facilities, and the relationship between the police and African Americans.

Now you may be wondering how we culled our top picks, particularly since the usual suspects, New York City and Los Angeles, didn't make the cut. We placed an interactive "readers' choice" survey on our Website (www.blackenterprise.com). Over a nine week period, between January 16 and March 23, 2001, more than 4,000 surfers responded. Participants were asked to evaluate their cities based on their level of satisfaction with 21 quality-of-life factors. Responses ranged from 1 (very dissatisfied) to 5 (very satisfied), with 3 being neutral.

Next, the cumulative totals for each quality-of-life factor was divided by the number of respondents who rated that issue, resulting in a mean rating ranging from 1 to 5. For each city, these mean rating scores were totaled, with the sum being that city's final total rating score. Although 105 would be considered a perfect score (meaning a city received a "5" for each of the 21 questions), the scores for the top cities range from 70.58 to 59.54. All cities evaluated were then ranked according to their final scores. For statistical stability, only those cities with at least 50 respondents were included on our final list. Those with the 10 highest final total rating scores comprise our "Readers' Choice: 10 Best Cities for African Americans."

But our analysis didn't stop there. We also assessed the driving forces behind some of the respondents' answers by looking at the primary reasons respondents live in their present home cities. Four factors rose to the top: (1) income earnings potential, (2) cost of living, (3) proximity to employer, and (4) cost of housing. Each city profile highlights these and other important issues for anyone contemplating relocation.

You'll also notice that we compared respondents' impressions with the facts by looking at actual city demographic and socioeconomic data. This information is critical because it reveals whether black people's perceptions of urban quality-of-life in these cities match statistical evidence. In cases where the data did not match reader perceptions, the city still remained on our top 10 list because the selection process was based on respondents' perceptions. The locales featured here, listed in inverse order, were evaluated by the people who know them best--you!

* For the purposes of this story, "cities" are U.S. Census Bureau-defined urbanized areas which consist of a central city of at least 50,000 residents, and a population density of at least 1,000 people per square mile of land area.

10: PHILADELPHIA
The "city of brotherly love" takes 10th place. Philadelphia's total population is a little more than 1.5 million and is 43.2% African American. Black household earnings average $28,858 per year, with 16.1% pocketing more than $50,000. The mean score for satisfaction with earnings potential suggests a general sense of contentment. Even with a nearly 12% black unemployment rate and a single-digit future-job-growth projection, Philadelphians expressed optimism about their employment prospects.

Interestingly, Philadelphians are simultaneously neutral about potential entrepreneurial opportunities and dissatisfied with the numbers of black-owned businesses. Philadelphia has more than 650,000 black residents and 9,285 black businesses. That amounts to 71 residents for every black business. Despite the low representation, there are five BE 100s corporations based in Philadelphia.

Economically speaking, the city has a cost of living index that is significantly above average. Housing prices are relatively moderate at $131,000 for a three-bedroom home. Black residents indicate they are only somewhat satisfied with these factors.

Survey results also reveal moderate disappointment with Philadelphia's financial institutions. It's no wonder: the black/white home mortgage loan rejection ratio is a whopping 3.2-to-1. In addition, the residential segregation index is relatively high, indicating little integration of neighborhoods. On the upside, 55.5% of Philadelphia's black residents are home owners, the highest percentage among the top 10 cites.

The city spent $7,250 per pupil, the highest among the top 10, but this is generally not seen as a good investment, per the low mean score for public school quality. Not only are residents unhappy with their children's schools, but they are also not pleased about the availability of daycare. Police relations and public safety also posted low marks from respondents. Surprisingly, Philadelphia's property crime rate ranks lowest among the top 10 cities and violent crimes are second lowest.

Survey results for Philadelphia raise numerous questions about people's perceptions of their quality of life versus what real data indicate. For example, despite socioeconomic disparity, respondents are generally satisfied with African Americans' level of power and influence and only slightly dissatisfied with the performance of their elected officials. But who can argue with them? Enough Philadelphians chimed in to proclaim there's more to their city than tasty cheese steak.

For more information on Philadelphia, go to the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce's Website (www.gpcc.com).

Encore, encore
Jeanne Bonner, a native of Philadelphia, has lived in many cities throughout the United States and the Caribbean. Although other locales had a more favorable climate, she was drawn back to her hometown. Philadelphia has a wealth of offerings for African Americans that outrank other cities, according to Bonner.

For example, she's found that Philadelphia's transportation system (SEPTA) is much better than systems in other cities, such as San Diego and Los Angeles. "You don't need a car here; you can rely on public transportation. It's just high as heck," she cautions. But generally she finds the city affordable compared to other major hubs, and believes African Americans have a significant amount of political clout. Job opportunities are plentiful in Philadelphia, but Bonner complains that firms don't offer blacks competitive salaries. "I've seen companies that want to start me with $18,000 as a billing specialist," the 43-year-old woman states. "My 25-year-old daughter gets paid more than that."

Still, she invites other African Americans to check out Philadelphia on their own terms, because even with room for improvement, there's much to experience in this city.


PHILADELPHI AT A GLANCE
Black Landmarks
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
All Wars Memorial to Colored Soldiers and Sailors

Black Annual Event African American Heritage Festival
Philadelphia Greek Picnic

Black History Fact
Bethel AME Church established in 1794

B.E. 100s Company
PRWT

Top Black Official
John Street, mayor

January/July Mean Temp (Fº)
30/77

Black Websites
www.phila-tribune.com
http://users.ntr.net/~reddin


9: CHICAGO
The windy city, nestled along the southwest shore of Lake Michigan, blew into ninth place. Once a major center for the cattle industry, Chicago is now a bustling global financial center boasting a population of nearly 3 million. In 1779, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a black pioneer from Haiti, built Chicago's first permanent settlement at the mouth of the Chicago River just east of where the Michigan Avenue Bridge now stands. Today, 1,065,009 African Americans live in the city. They earn, on average, $31,708 per household annually, with 18.2% bringing home more than $50,000. Based on survey results, residents are generally satisfied with their earnings.

They appear less than satisfied with the cost of living and housing. Chicago's cost of living index is above the national average. The price tag on a typical three-bedroom house is $170,200, the second highest among the top 10. In addition, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is also second to the highest at $750. Only 37.1% of blacks are home owners, last place among the top 10 cities. The black/white home mortgage loan rejection ratio indicates that blacks are at a severe disadvantage, and this may contribute to Chicago's high residential segregation index. Oddly, respondents appear only moderately dissatisfied with the performance of Chicago financial institutions and are somewhat unhappy with race relations.

The region suffers from a relatively high violent crime rate. Expectedly, residents are generally dissatisfied with the city's high incidence of offenses. At the same time, residents also expressed their disapproval of law enforcement. The trend toward general dissatisfaction continued as related to the performance of elected officials and the degree of African Americans' power and influence.

On the brighter side, Chi-Town was home to 23,576 black-owned businesses, with almost $2.5 billion in annual sales in 1997. The mean score for entrepreneurial opportunities is relatively high. Job market predictions appear steady, with future job growth estimated at 11.1%. The federal government provides stability as the largest employer. The largest private employers are Jewel-Osco, Advocate Healthcare, United Airlines, and Motorola; all four have increased their hiring over the past two years, with United leading the way with 30.7% in growth. Based on survey results, respondents seem pleased with the plentiful restaurants, museums, and spectator sports that they can enjoy when they aren't at work.


For more information, go to Chicago's business Website (www .chicagobusiness.com).

It's no secret that the bitter cold is at its best during a winter in Chicago. And while Doreen Hopkins admits that the brisk temperatures are something to consider, the city is the land of opportunity and should be on any African American's hit list. "We're a very visible force in Chicago," insists the 23-year-old college senior, pointing out the long list of black-oriented cultural and political events. "In [areas] where there are a majority of African Americans, there is usually an African American alderman. That's the first liaison between the people and the political structure of the city. So we're represented here if not anywhere else, if we take advantage of it."

Hopkins is also proud of the city's transportation system. "Public transportation is wonderful in Chicago. There are subways and [elevated or Loop] trains that touch every point of the city. Our bus system is huge and there are commuter train lines, too." Despite the extensive transportation system, the city still seems pretty segregated, and ethnic groups stay amongst themselves. "The South and West sides are African American areas," she describes. "There's a Jewish town, China town, as well as areas for the Latinos, the Polish, and the Irish. Everyone is represented, but historically they've [settled] in particular areas."

In reference to crime statistics, Hopkins believes the numbers are skewed. "There are areas where particular crimes go unnoticed or untamed because as long as the crime remains in that neighborhood, it's OK. I don't want to accept the crime statistics as absolute. I don't ever remember not being safe."

AT A GLANCE
Black Landmarks

Du Sable Museum of African American History and Victory Monument

Black Annual Event
Annual Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic

Black History Fact
First settled by Jean Baptiste Point du

B.E. 100s Company
Johnson Publishing Co. Inc.

Top Black Official
Jesse Jackson Jr., U.S. Representative

January/July Mean Temp (Fº)
25/75

Black Websites
www.blackchicago.com
www.tourblackchicago.com
Weathering the storm


8: DALLAS
Dallas takes eighth place on this exclusive list. The city is home to 1,188,580 citizens. The 307,957 black residents are 25.9% of the total population. The average black household earns $25,757, third lowest of the top cities. The average household income is $42,209, giving Dallas the widest racial income gap among the top 10 cities. The region beats out only Charlotte and Memphis in the percentage of black households with incomes exceeding $50,000 annually, 12.1%. Going against what are presumably gloomy figures, respondents' mean score for earnings potential reflects general satisfaction.

Perhaps the survey numbers are driven by residents' relatively inexpensive lifestyles. Dallas' cost of living index is higher than the national average. A typical three-bedroom home lists at $126,000, making the housing market third in affordability behind Houston and Memphis. Indeed, the area scored solid marks from respondents regarding the cost of living and housing. On the downside, 37.9% of African American Dallas residents own homes; that's the second lowest figure behind Chicago.

Dallas landed in the better half among the top 10 in the violent crime rate category. According to the Dallas Police Department, overall crime has dropped 36% since 1990. The homicide rate is also on the decline. In spite of the fact that the city appears to be getting safer, residents expressed dissatisfaction in this area. Survey participants were also dismayed by the relationship between African Americans and the police. <

Negative feelings about public school quality is also evident in the significantly low mean score for this category. At $4,815, Dallas' per pupil expenditure is in the low range among the top 10 cities, and the pupil/teacher ratio of 14.5:1 is lowest among the top 10. Still, black parents appear generally unhappy about their children's educational environment. Further, daycare center availability, or the lack thereof, is also a sticking point for respondents.

Ron Kirk, Dallas' first black mayor, appears to have his work cut out for him if he is going to improve the relatively low satisfaction level for elected officials' performance. So far, Kirk has been most successful in the area of economic development, according to figures on his Website (www.ronkirk.com).

On a positive note, survey responses reveal satisfaction with driving times and healthcare affordability. Being home to Bishop T.D. Jakes' Potter's House and other large religious enterprises, Dallas performs up to respondents' expectations in the church outreach category.

For more information on Dallas, go to the Greater Dallas Chamber's Website (www.dallaschamber.org).

Sticking out like a sore thumb
For some parents, sending their kids off to college means cutting the apron strings, but not for 43-year-old Dee Dee Gibson-Moreland. She moved from Los Angeles to Dallas to be closer to her son when he entered Grambling University. Her feelings about the move are mixed. On the one hand, she finds that the city has a long way to go in race relations, cultural offerings, and transportation. But these limitations also spell opportunity, and have allowed her to shine as the only African American producer/writer at Dallas Community Television. "I'm the Oprah at my station," she beams.

Gibson-Moreland says that she and her husband, Webster, whom she met in Dallas, meet very few entrepreneurs. "The few in business are either way up there or very small," she explains. Yet, there are also a lot of start-up programs available for prospective entrepreneurs. "Overall, I believe Dallas is going to be a great place for African Americans. There are a lot of opportunities, if they would just reach out for them....The city is good for me because I stick out like a sore thumb and have no competition. I'm in the perfect place for my career."

DALLAS AT-A-GLANCE
Black Landmarks
Dallas African American Museum
Paul Quinn College

Black Annual Event
Dallas Black Dance Theatre
Seasonal Performances

Black History Fact
Home of Freedmen's Cemetery, a pre-Civil War burial site

Top Black Official
Ronald Kirk, Mayor

January/July Mean Temp (Fº)
45/86

Black Websites
www.dallasblack.com
www.eclipsefw.com


7: BALTIMORE
Baltimore, situated on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, sailed into seventh place. The city, with 651,154 residents, is 64.3% African American. Survey results indicate that Baltimoreans are generally content with their earnings potential, cost of living, and housing prices. Income figures for blacks are in the middle. Black households average $29,944 in income annually, with 17% earning more than $50,000. Also, Baltimore's cost of living index (97.0) is slightly below the national average (100), and the average price of a three-bedroom home is moderate at $126,800.

In terms of black-owned businesses, numbers declined slightly between 1992 and 1997. However, reported sales more than tripled, as did the number of paid employees. With future job growth on an upward trend, confidence in the Baltimore area employment market is good. And based on survey results, respondents aren't disillusioned by double-digit black unemployment figures.

After more than a decade of black Mayor Kurt L. Schmoke's leadership, Baltimore recently elected white Democrat Martin O'Malley to the post. The new administration has been embroiled in controversy over the past year, with the reprimand and resignation of high-ranking officials. Survey results indicate that residents are slightly dissatisfied with the performance of their elected representatives. O'Malley's "zero tolerance" approach in response to Baltimore's high violent crime rate is modeled after that of the New York City Police Department (NYPD), which is currently under fire for several racial profiling and brutality incidents. Not surprisingly, Baltimore's showing for black-police relations and crime is low.

With nearly half of its public schools recently being threatened with state takeover for failing to meet performance standards, Baltimore's low rating in this area seems fitting. Failing schools and rising crime are likely factors contributing to Baltimore's loss of more than 140,000 residents between 1987 and 1999.

On the upside, Baltimore's Inner Harbor has long been a model for inner-city redevelopment. The bustling downtown area boasts dozens of fine seafood restaurants, nightclubs, and two new sports stadiums in what was once a forgotten, decaying urban core. The blocks surrounding the Inner Harbor house numerous musical venues, theaters, and the "Great Blacks in Wax Museum," the first museum of its kind. As a result, respondents are generally satisfied with their access to cultural and recreational activities.

For more information on Baltimore, visit the city's official Website (www.ci.baltimore.md.us).

Mixing it up
The social scene for singles can be a challenge in Baltimore, says 36-year-old Etolia Biggs. But she doesn't think it's any more complicated mingling in her city than anywhere else. "We have concerts, plays, the theater, the Great Blacks in Wax Museum, and other things. There are places to go and people to see, but it's still difficult meeting males.... I think it's just a sign of the times," she concludes.

Still, Biggs says Baltimore has some benefits that can't be beat. Take its location, for example. Baltimore is close to Washington, D.C., New York, and Philadelphia, and this allows Biggs and her neighbors to enjoy the benefits of the higher salaries paid in bigger cities, but they save on the rent by living in the less-expensive Baltimore. In addition, Baltimore residents get to experience the four seasons without the extreme winter weather that hits more northern metros. Adds Biggs, "If I were to describe Baltimore, I'd say it has a little city and a little country. I love the Southern flair, and I like it overall."


BALTIMORE AT A GLANCE
Black Landmarks
The Great Blacks in Wax Museum
NAACP Headquarters

Black Annual Event
AFRAM Festival

Black History Fact
Birthplace of Supreme Court Justice

B.E. 100s Company
Health Resources Inc.

Top Black Official
Sheila Dixon/president, Baltimore City Council

January/July Mean Temp (Fº)
35/80

Black Website
www.btimes.com



6: DETROIT
Pulling into sixth place is Detroit, with 775,772 African American residents out of a total population of 951,270. The city is headquarters for a number of Fortune 500 companies, including Ford Motor Co., General Motors Corp., and Kmart Corp. In addition, 14 BE 100s companies are based in Detroit.

Respondents expressed overall satisfaction with black employment opportunities. However, respondents' views do not reflect reality. The city recently experienced negative job growth and expects future job growth of only 9.2%. The black unemployment rate is just over 8%, compared with 4.5% for the metropolitan statistical area.*

Detroiters appear very satisfied with their earnings potential, cost of living, and housing costs. The average annual income for African American households is $27,892, with a little more than 16% earning more than $50,000. Detroit's cost of living index is only five points above the national average. And residents can purchase a three-bedroom home for an average price of $140,600, which is a little high when compared to other top cities.

Just under 50% of black residents own their homes. Accordingly, the city posted the lowest black/white home mortgage loan rejection ratio among the top 10, illustrating that African Americans who desire a mortgage fare much better here than in the other top cities. However, the residential segregation index is second highest at 1.853, so you're not likely to find diversified neighborhoods in Detroit. The mass transit availability index is 10.3, low for a region of its size. So it's not surprising that respondents were very dissatisfied with public transportation. Still, respondents were somewhat satisfied with the time they spent commuting to work, an average of 23 minutes.

On issues relating to children, respondents expressed discontent with the quality of public schools and the availability of daycare. They also seem generally displeased with law enforcement and the crime rate. So it should come as no surprise that folks are not happy with the performances of their local elected officials.

For more information on Detroit, go to the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce's Website (www.detroit chamber.com).

Reigning in Detroit
Marcus Harris says, "Detroit is clearly the best city for African Americans today due to the power, influence, and control they have in the city from a business, political, and social standpoint." The 24-year-old has what he considers to be a long list of evidence to support his claim. Aside from the overwhelmingly large African American population (61.4%), he says blacks do well in his hometown because "the city is virtually run by African Americans, so it's very favorable for you to set up shop here."

According to Harris, members of the African American business community are close-knit and supportive. He says he got his own position as an information technology analyst at General Motors as a result of a personal referral. And business booms for black entrepreneurs as well. "Everywhere you go, there are black-owned stores and restaurants such as Ja-da, Steve's Soul Food, and East Franklin's. There are definitely opportunities here just because of the large base of African American residents."

On the cultural front, Harris says that annual summer events such as the Ribs-N-Soul Festival, Praise Fest, Afro-American Music Festival, and African World Festival are great. But he also looks forward to the city's newer developments, such as the Detroit Lion's domed stadium, Ford Field. "The city has also built three casinos, which is creating a vibrant entertainment district," he points out. And Harris says folks shouldn't miss the celebrations that will be held in honor of the city's 300th birthday this summer, just another venue that proves Detroit is the best place for blacks to live and do business.

* A metropolitan statistical area (MSA) is defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as a core Urbanized Area and its surrounding urbanized counties with a total population of at least 100,000 or more inhabitants. Analysis of Census data reveals that in many MSAs, large proportions of African Americans live outside of central cities.

DETROIT AT A GLANCE
Black Landmarks
The Motown Historical Museum
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

Black Annual Event
African World Festival

Black History Fact
W.D. Fard founded the Nation of Islam in 1930

B.E. 100s Companies
The Bing Group
Barden Companies Inc.
Mel Farr Automotive Group

Top Black Official
Dennis Archer, mayor

January/July Mean Temp (F)
25/74

Black Websites
www.aacofc.org
www.infodetroit.com


5: MEMPHIS
Home to federal express' world hub (29,500 employees), the "Bluff City" is emerging as an attractive community for progressive African Americans. Of Memphis' 650,100 residents, 61.4% are black. Respondents seem relatively satisfied with African American power and influence and church outreach categories, indicating that there is both strength and cohesiveness in numbers.

Respondents also weighed in favorably on the issue of new home prices. It seems Memphis' low average household income overall, $35,139, is offset by a very affordable housing market and a rock-bottom cost of living index. The low average cost of a three-bedroom home, $114,600, may explain why nearly half of the blacks in Memphis are home owners.

Ironically, Memphians appear to be dissatisfied with the job market. However, recent and future job growth rates are both solid, at 2.3% annually and 19.2% over 10 years, respectively. Also, the number of paid employees at black-owned businesses more than tripled between 1992 and 1997. In addition, the overall and black unemployment rates are relatively low at 4.4% and 6.8% respectively. Despite the growing number of career opportunities in the city, residents' perceptions about employment are negative.

On the other hand, the low satisfaction scores for the city's crime, which beat Baltimore's and Chicago's, are justifiable. Both violent and property crime rates are the highest on our list, at 1,159.2 and 5,928.2, per 100,000 respectively. This may have contributed to the low marks that the police and elected officials also received.

The educational system is another area of dissatisfaction among residents. Despite Mayor Willie W. Herenton's strong background in education--he holds a Ph.D. and was the Memphis school superintendent for 12 years--Memphis public schools just aren't making the grade. The $4,280 spent per pupil is lowest of the top 10 cities and data from the Memphis Area Chamber of Commerce reveal a significant achievement gap between central city and surrounding county schools. For example, the dropout rate for Memphis city schools is 35.2%, yet it's less than 1% for the other schools in outlying Shelby County.

Although concerns surrounding the city's crime rate and educational deficits definitely need to be addressed, the overall outlook for folks in Memphis is very bright. The city's push to attract a National Basketball Association team, should it succeed, may spur a series of slam dunks for this growing Sun Belt metropolis.

For further information on Memphis, go to the Memphis Area Chamber of Commerce's Website (www.memphischamber.com).

Attitude is everything
As a child, 26-year-old Sheri Neely spent her summer vacations in Memphis, where she hung out with her family. She loved it, but says, "I never thought I would live here. It just kind of happened." Her husband, Victor, a Memphis native, wanted to remain in his hometown, so Neely traded her Arkansas address for one in Tennessee. "Since I was always back and forth to Memphis, the transition wasn't bad at all," she says.

In addition, Neely feels she's gotten a better deal. "Job opportunities are much better here than in Arkansas," she insists. But the account executive for SunCom Wireless has also hooked up with one of the city's free business-development programs. She's in the process of starting her own business, and the program assists prospective entrepreneurs with developing a business plan and a loan package. "It's called Inspiration, and it's going to be a combination restaurant-Christian club....I think this is a good time to have something like this. We have so many young people that are Christian and they don't have a place like this to go to. It's an untapped market."

Overall, Neely says that the benefits of Memphis just can't be beat, especially on the career front. "No matter what field you are in, the opportunity is here for you to jump in, start running with it, and be successful. With the right attitude, the sky is the limit here in Memphis, Tennessee."

MEMPHIS AT A GLANCE
Black Landmarks
National Civil Rights Museum
LeMoyne-Owen College

Black Annual Event
Southern Heritage Football Classic

Black History Fact
Longtime home of Ida B. Wells-Barnett

Top Black Official
Willie W. Herenton, mayor

January/July Mean Temp (Fº)
40/83

Black Websites
www.blackmemphis.com
www.bbamemphis.org

4: CHARLOTTE
There are only about 177,000 african americans living in Charlotte, but they still made a strong showing in our survey. Located on the border between the two Carolinas, the city is home to 540,828 people. Residents gave pretty rave reviews for their earnings potential in the city, even though the facts fail to support their sentiment. The overall and black average household incomes are the second lowest among the top 10, only surpassing Memphis'. The 10.9% of the city's black households earning more than $50,000 per year is also the lowest after Memphis. Perhaps their upbeat attitudes can be explained by Charlotte's low cost of living index and low medical cost index. Also, the future employment outlook is promising at a solid 18.7% growth rate.

The fact that Charlotte's violent crime rate surpasses that of Philadelphia, Detroit, and Houston is somewhat surprising. Again, going against statistical data, respondents' ratings indicate that they are generally satisfied with their level of public safety. Feelings regarding race relations in the "Queen City" were neutral, and its residential segregation index is the best among the top 10, indicating that Charlotte neighborhoods are fairly mixed.

Although Charlotte residents don't seem to have trouble getting along, they do have trouble getting around, as revealed by their dissatisfaction with public transportation. The mass transit availability index* of 3.9 is the lowest for the top 10 cities. Most likely, local public transportation facilities have not caught up with urban growth. Conversely, commuters are enjoying relatively brief trips to work (21.3 minutes), reflected in respondents' high level of satisfaction with drive times.

Overall, Charlotte residents are doing very well, but survey results indicate that they may be mulling over concerns about the quality of their schools, the number of black-owned businesses, and the city's lack of social offerings. Still, a recent USA Today study ranked Charlotte the nation's second-fastest growing city.

To see if Charlotte is for you, go to the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce's Website (www.charlotte chamber.com).

Making the black connection
Although Richmond Baker, 30, was accustomed to hopping from city to city, he and his wife, Sharon, decided it was time to settle down in one location--at least for a little while. So they searched the Internet to find a place that was closer to their families, had a slower pace, and was friendly to black folks. "[Back then], we lived in a part of Colorado that didn't have any African American people....I had to get out of there."

Based on the research they compiled from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources, they narrowed down their choices to Atlanta and Charlotte, North Carolina. As a next step, Baker logged on to various Websites to zap his résumé to firms based in these locales. Microsoft took the bait and flew him to North Carolina for an interview. He got the job as a network engineer, and says he has no regrets because he loves the warm weather, low crime rate, cultural events, diversity in the schools and in the neighborhoods, as well as the upward mobility enjoyed by African Americans. "We were looking for a place that had lots of opportunities and I'm happy with where I work because it's an outstanding company....Here it's not an oddity if a black person is in a professional role."


*MASS TRANSIT AVAILABILITY
The extent of mass transit availability is an important measure of workforce mobility and overall transportation capacity.
Measure: All urban public mass transit systems' carrying capacity, in annual vehicle revenue capacity miles per capita, 1998.

CHARLOTTE AT A GLANCE
Black Landmark
Beatties Ford Road Historic District

Black Annual Event
100 Black Men of Greater Charlotte
Carolinas Football Classic

Black History Fact
Johnson C. Smith University, founded 1867

B.E. 100s Company
American Product Distribution Inc.

Top Black Official
Pat McCrory, mayor

January/July Mean Temp (Fº)
39/79

Black Website
www.thecharlottepost.com


3: ATLANTA
Atlanta came away with a respectable third-place finish. The city's total population is 416,474, of which more than 61% are African American. Atlanta, widely known as the "Black Mecca," had solid performances in several prime categories. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 159,830 black people moved to Atlanta between 1990 and 1996, more than moved to any other U.S. city.

It should come as no surprise that Atlanta made high marks in reader satisfaction in the categories of cultural activity availability, entrepreneurial prospects, and job opportunities. Atlanta's future job growth is a strong 23.2%, and the black unemployment rate, 5.5%, is the lowest among the 10 finalists. Atlanta earned the top satisfaction score in terms of black business ownership, and was one of only two top 10 cities where residents expressed general satisfaction about this issue. There are 33 residents for every one black business.


For average black household income, Georgia's capital city is second to Baltimore at $28,838. Respondents' satisfaction with their earnings potential was third behind Washington, D.C., and Houston. Satisfaction with cost of living is also relatively positive. Respondents weighed in positively with regard to blacks having power and influence, church outreach activities, and the social/dating environment.

With Atlanta doing well in so many categories, you may be wondering what factors contributed to its third-place finish. Atlanta received low marks for the quality of its public schools, daycare availability, and commuting times. (Atlanta's rapid urban growth has turned it into a commuter's nightmare!)

The mass transit availability index, 16.7, is relatively low for a large city. And residents expressed general dissatisfaction with the public transportation system. It's no wonder: the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), the city's public transportation agency, has been embroiled in a protracted legal battle with black residents over inequity in fares and service since February 2000.

In his "State of the City 2001" address, black Mayor Bill Campbell made note of his successful campaign to improve the infrastructure of Atlanta's inner city. He also cited numerous crime statistics indicating that the city is much safer than when he took office in 1994. The citizens logging in from Atlanta are obviously very happy with most aspects of their hometown. They made a strong run for the wire, but the roses go to another city.

For additional information on Atlanta, visit the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce's Website (www .metroatlantachamber.com).


A rare native
Have you been bitten by the Atlanta bug? Even if you haven't, you probably know a host of others who long to join the folks down in HOT-lanta. "Atlanta is one big melting pot right now for business and social life," says Shaneesa Ashford, who claims the surge of people moving to this city has been contagious. "We have such diverse cultures, and the black people here come from places like the Caribbean, Africa, and everywhere else. I was born and raised here, but that's rare. We have so many people moving down here that it's kind of hard to find an Atlanta native."

The 30-year-old did abandon her hometown during her college days at Florida A&M University. But a year and a half after graduation, Ashford, along with her husband, Alton Anderson, returned to the southern city because "he and his friends had been talking about moving up here since they were in high school." Ashford is glad that she returned to her roots because she loves the warm weather and being close to her family. She's also happy with her blossoming career as a publications coordinator for the Georgia Department of Transportation. Besides, there's no place like home. "We've got the excitement of a big city with some Southern hospitality," she says.

ATLANTA AT A GLANCE
Black Landmarks
The King Center
Atlanta University Center

Black Annual Event
National Black Arts Festival

Black History Fact
Birthplace of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

B.E. 100s Company
H.J. Russell & Co.

Top Black Official
Bill Campbell, mayor

January/July Mean Temp (Fº)
41/79

Black Websites
www.ebonypages.com
www.1stfridays.com


2: WASHINGTON, D.C.
The nation's capital takes the silver medal. Washington, D.C.'s 343,312 African Americans comprise 60% of the total population. Blacks living in the city and surrounding areas earn the highest average household income ($38,858) of all those in the top 10. The percentage of black households earning more than $50,000 per year also topped contenders' at 28.4%. According to survey results, residents are satisfied with their earnings potential.

Living in the nation's capital and, close by, the extensive Chesapeake Bay shoreline, respondents expressed high satisfaction with the availability of cultural and recreational opportunities. Professional sports franchises include the NBA's Wizards and the NFL's Redskins. Respondents were also somewhat satisfied with blacks' level of power and influence, and the performance of their elected officials.

The Washington, D.C. area is home to slightly more than 10,000 black-owned businesses. Earnings for such businesses almost tripled between 1992 and 1997. As would be expected, residents are very satisfied with entrepreneurial opportunities and somewhat satisfied with the number of black-owned businesses in their hometown.

The high satisfaction rating for public transportation far outpaces that of the other cities on our list. No surprise here. Washington, D.C.'s mass transit availability index (24.4) is second only behind the more populous Chicago (26.5). While not as established as Chicago's "El" (elevated) trains, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) and the Maryland rail commuter trains, subway, and light rail appear to be increasingly meeting the needs of commuters. The average commuter spends 28.8 minutes in transit, only slightly longer than Chicago commuters (28 minutes).

The city posted low satisfaction marks for crime, daycare availability, and public school quality. Perceptions don't necessarily reflect actual statistical data. For example, although Washington, D.C., was notorious for crime during the 1990s, the most recent crime-rate data place the area as safest among the top 10. Despite the drop in crime, black residents do not appear happy with their relationship with law enforcement. As far as education is concerned, per pupil expenditures rank third behind Philadelphia and Detroit.

Hopefully, African American Mayor Anthony A. Williams' vision of "strong schools, safe streets, and clean communities" will come to fruition, making the district an even better place.

For more information on Washington, D.C., visit the city's official Website (www.washingtondc.gov).

The place to be
Washington, D.C.'s got it going on, according to attorney Candice Mitchell. The 35-year-old says the city has a lot of professional opportunities for African Americans who work for the government or in the private sector. In addition, she says there are lots of wonderful opportunities to mix business and pleasure. "Most of the African American professional organizations host a wide variety of activities such as golf tournaments, enhancement seminars, dinners, and other fund-raisers," she says.

She also loves the cultural diversity that has become an integral part of the district area. Adds Mitchell, "We have all types of socioeconomic levels, restaurants, and entertainment. We are in close proximity to major cities such as Boston or Miami. And D.C. has lots of great universities [and] sports teams, as well as three major airports. Everyone I know comes here for meetings, conventions, to visit a friend, or to sightsee."

Mitchell also brags about the Washington, D.C. Metro system, which stops at all of the city's tourist attractions in the downtown area. "It's clean, safe, and modern," she insists. The bottom line for Mitchell, however, is that she doesn't want to live anywhere else. "This is where I was born and where I went to undergrad and law school. D.C. is the place to be--by far," she says.

WASHINGTON, D.C. AT A GLANCE
Black Landmarks
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
African American Civil War Memorial

Black Annual Event
Congressional Black Congress Foundation Legislative Conference

Black History Fact
Original city layout surveyed by Benjamin Banneker

Top Black Official
Anthony A. Williams, mayor

January/July Mean Temp (Fº)
35/80

Black Websites
www.urbanconnect.com
www.urbanhangsuite.com


1: HOUSTON
Congratulations! Houston took away the gold AND has earned the title of BLACK ENTERPRISE's best city for African Americans. Founded in 1836, the city of Houston is the 10th largest in the United States behind New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Blacks are 25.3% of the 1,953,631 central city population, according to 2000 Census figures. Survey results indicate that Houston residents have great confidence in their earnings potential, despite the fact that the metropolitan statistical area* (MSA) average black household income ($27,447) is well below Houston's average MSA household income ($41,257). A little more than 13% of black households earn more than $50,000 annually. The most recent income figures available are from the 1990 Census.

In 1999, Relistar Financial Corp., a Minneapolis company that offers consumer and corporate insurance products, ranked Houston the No. 1 city in the Unites States for "High Job Quality Average Earnings." Houston survey participants indicated that they are satisfied with the employment prospects for blacks. Future job growth is projected at a strong 17.8%, according to the Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. Houston has more than 2 million payroll jobs and is corporate headquarters for 11 Fortune 500 companies, including Compaq Computer and American General. Black businesses abound in Houston. There are 29 African American residents for every black business; that's better than the other cities on the list.

The high satisfaction ratings Houston received for its cost of living and housing prices pushed it over the top. Indeed, the MSA boasts the second-lowest cost of living index and cost of housing ($108,500 for a typical three-bedroom home) among the top 10 finalists. Fully 43% of blacks are home owners, in spite of a home mortgage loan rejection rate of nearly 41%. Oddly, Houston respondents indicated that they are generally satisfied with the performance of their local banks. On another note, Houston's relatively low residential segregation index means that African Americans live throughout the city. This may explain its above average rating for the state of race relations, a close second to Dallas.

On the political front, residents are somewhat content with their elected officials. Mayor Lee P. Brown's "neighborhood-oriented government" approach appears to be making a difference.

For more information on Houston, visit the Greater Houston Partnership's Website at (www.houston.org).

Politically correct in Houston
Although Janell Ellison, age 29, tests software for NASA's space shuttle, she's pretty grounded, having lived in Houston her entire life. Ellison believes this town spells opportunity for African Americans, particularly on the business front.

"Finding a job in my field was fairly easy because [recruiters] came to Texas Southern to interview African Americans for positions in the field of science and technology. I had a job when I graduated."

Like other Houstonians in our survey, Ellison is also fairly satisfied with the performance of local elected officials and their level of power and influence in the community. "I think we have a pretty good number of black politicians in the city of Houston. One such politician is Rodney Ellis (state senator in District 13), who is fairly active in the community. He's been to some of the events that Texas Southern has sponsored and talked to the alumni. There's also [U.S.] Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. She's always active in community events and is involved in all kinds of social programs and is really out there in the streets working for her constituents. We also have a black mayor, Lee Brown. He's constantly talking with the youth, different people in the community, and trying to get things done."

HOUSTON AT A GLANCE
Black Landmarks
Emancipation Park
"Freedman's Town"

Black Annual Event
Juneteenth Celebration

Black History Fact
Birthplace of late U.S. Rep. Barbara Jordan

Top Black Official
Lee P. Brown, mayor

January/July Mean Temp (Fº)
52/84

Black Websites
www.insideblackhouston.com
www.blackhouston.com

* A metropolitan statistical area (MSA) is defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as a core Urbanized Area and its surrounding urbanized counties with a total population of at least 100,000 or more inhabitants. Analysis of Census data reveals that in many MSAs, large proportions of African Americans live outside of central cities.

FINAL TALLY
TOP 10 CITIES	B.E. RANKING	FINAL SCORE	TOTAL POPULATION	BLACK POPULATION	BLACK %
Houston, TX	1	70.58	1,953,631	494,496	25.3
Washington, D.C.	2	69.45	572,059	343,312	60.0
Atlanta, GA	3	68.99	416,474	255,689	61.4
Charlotte, NC	4	65.18	540,828	176,964	32.7
Memphis, TN	5	63.79	650,100	399,208	61.4
Detroit, MI	6	62.37	951,270	775,772	81.6
Baltimore, MD	7	61.99	651,154	418,951	64.3
Dallas, TX	8	61.18	1,188,580	307,957	25.9
Chicago, IL	9	60.22	2,896,016	1,065,009	36.8
Philadelphia, PA	10	59.54	1,517,550	655,824	43.2
National Average	N/A	N/A	281,421,906*	34,658,190*	12.3
B.E. Top 10 Average	N/A	64.33	1,133,766	489,318	49.26

MONEY & FINANCE
TOP 10 CITIES	COST OF LIVING INDEX**	AVG. HOUSE PRICE**	AVG. RENT**	BLACK MORTGAGE REJECTION %**	BLACK/WHITE REJECTION RATIO**
Houston, TX	93.1	$108,500	$610	40.57	1.61:1
Washington, D.C.	124.0	176,400	830	24.77	3.01:1
Atlanta, GA	103.2	126,800	590	30.63	1.95:1
Charlotte, NC	100.1	139,400	560	N/A	N/A
Memphis, TN	92.4	114,600	540	36.18	2.17:1
Detroit, MI	105.2	140,600	640	36.21	1.52:1
Baltimore, MD	97.0	126,800	640	28.89	2.73:1
Dallas, TX	100.5	126,000	730	40.71	1.64:1
Chicago, IL	111.3	170,200	750	32.68	3.93:1
Philadelphia, PA	100.0	128,572	N/A	28.64	3:20:1
National Average	100.0	128,572	N/A	53.75	1.96:1
B.E. Top 10 Average	104.99	136,030	662	33.25	2.42:1

CAREER & BUSINESS
TOP 10 CITIES	AVG. HOUSEHOLD INCOME	AVG. HOUSEHOLD INCOME-BLACKS	% BLACK HOUSEHOLDS-50K+	RECENT JOB % GROWTH (1yr)**
Houston, TX	$41,257	$27,447	13.1	1.9
Washington, D.C.	58,799	38,858	28.4	3.3
Atlanta, GA	44,968	28,838	15.1	3.7
Charlotte, NC	37,805	25,720	10.9	1.9
Memphis, TN	35,139	21,615	8.2	2.3
Detroit, MI	42,393	27,892	16.3	-0.62
Baltimore, MD	44,405	29,944	17.0	1.5
Dallas, TX	42,209	25,757	12.1	3.3
Chicago, IL	45,098	31,708	18.2	0.55
.0Philadelphia, PA	44,482	28,858	16.1	0.8
National Average	37,403	24,814	13.2	1.68
B.E. Top 10 Average	43,656	29,300	15.54	1.87

ENTREPRENEURSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
TOP 10 CITIES	1992 BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES	1992 SALES (000)	1992 PAID EMPLOYEES	1997 BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES	1997 SALES (000)	1997 PAID EMPLOYEES
Houston, TX	13,592	$537,490	6,191	16,855	$1,418,893	22,409
Washington, D.C.	10,111	451,861	4,277	10,909	1,334,651	N/A
Atlanta, GA	5,762	280,701	3,299	7,853	1,012,038	N/A
Charlotte, NC	3,216	123,654	951	4,803	421,586	5,159
Memphis, TN	5,662	183,665	2,257	8,080	573,370	7,667
Detroit, MI	9,275	486,092	4,528	11,282	1,358,703	12,114
Baltimore, MD	7,542	233,164	2,409	7,255	731,236	8,191
Dallas, TX	7,071	330,354	5,191	7,661	1,546,748	10,649
Chicago, IL	15,328	1,087,267	10,961	23,576	2,452,633	24,815
Philadelphia, PA	7,183	549,414	5,962	9,285	830,185	8,896
National Average	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
B.E. Top 10 Average	8,474	426,366	4,602.60	10,758	1,168,004	12,488

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
TOP 10 CITIES	FUTURE JOB GROWTH (10 yrs) %	UNEMPLOYMENT RATE-TOTAL %	UNEMPLOYMENT RATE-BLACK %
Houston, TX	17.8	5.5	9.4
Washington, D.C.	16.5	3.5	5.7
Atlanta, GA	23.2	3.8	5.5
Charlotte, NC	18.7	3.7	6.2
Memphis, TN	19.2	4.4	6.8
Detroit, MI	9.2	4.5	8.2
Baltimore, MD	15.1	5.5	11.4
Dallas, TX	19.7	4.0	8.9
Chicago, IL	11.1	5.0	9.5
Philadelphia, PA	7.7	5.7	11.7
National Average	15.09	4.24	8.0
B.E. Top 10 Average	15.82	4.56	8.33

URBAN ENVIRONMENTS
TOP 10 CITIES	MEDICAL COST INDEX*	MASS TRANSIT AVAIL- ABILITY**	VIOLENT CRIME RATE**	PROPERTY CRIME RATE	RACIAL HATE CRIMES	CITY MAYOR	RESIDENTIAL SEGREGATION INDEX**	% BLACKS OWNING HOMES**	AVG. MINUTES COMMUTING**
Houston, TX	109.1	15.1	749.1	4,452.6	21	Lee P. Brown*	1.374	43.1	25.6
Washington, D.C.	119.5	24.4	526.6	3,999.0	4	Anthony A. Williams*	1.581	41.1	28.8
Atlanta, GA	109.2	16.7	720.3	5,624.7	11	Bill Campbell*	1.498	40.4	25.4
Charlotte, NC	94.2	3.9	946.7	5,683.6	0	Pat McCrory	1.276	43.8	21.3
Memphis, TN	93.8	8.0	1,159.2	5,928.2	N/A	Willie W. Herenton*	1.422	47.9	21.5
Detroit, MI	100.0	10.3	850.7	4,850.5	10	Dennis Archer*	1.853	48.7	23.1
Baltimore, MD	93.7	17.2	1,064.9	5,169.5	8	Martin O'Malley	1.602	39.4	25.6
Dallas, TX	107.3	16.2	728.4	5,205.9	20	Ron Kirk*	1.366	37.9	24.4
Chicago, IL	110.0	26.5	1,062.3	4,527.8	47	Richard M. Daley	1.858	37.1	28.0
Philadelphia, PA	98.0	17.4	665.0	3,713.0	48	John F. Street*	1.688	55.5	24.4
National Average	100.0	8.03	506.0	4,329.0	N/A	N/A	1.377**	43.4	19.2
B.E. Top 10 Average	103.48	15.57	847.32	4,778.98	21.13	N/A	1.55	43.49	24.81

PUBLIC & PRIVATE SERVICES
TOP 10 CITIES	DOLLARS PER PUPIL**	PUPIL/ TEACHER RATIO**	HIGH SCHOOL GRAD %**	COLLEGE GRAD %**	DOCTORS PER 10,000**
Houston, TX	4,984	15.2	81.2	26.4	13.2
Washington, D.C.	6,825	18.1	87.2	37.3	17.1
Atlanta, GA	5,280	16.4	86.6	34.1	16.5
Charlotte, NC	4,773	15.8	80.1	22.8	14.7
Memphis, TN	4,280	17.8	73.1	18.7	13.1
Detroit, MI	6,976	20.1	82.9	22.7	12.4
Baltimore, MD	6,390	18.3	82.0	25.7	17.5
Dallas, TX	4,815	14.5	81.5	26.2	14.0
Chicago, IL	5,996	17.6	80.4	27.0	14.4
Philadelphia, PA	7,250	17.1	82.3	24.6	15.2

** A metropolitan statistical area (MSA) is defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as a core Urbanized Area and its surrounding urbanized counties with a total population of at least 100,000 or more inhabitants. Analysis of Census data reveals that in many MSAs, large proportions of African Americans live outside of central cities.