Top 10 Indian states men prefer to work in 2026: Uttar Pradesh ranks #1; check if Delhi makes the list

Indian states men prefer to work in 2026: India’s job market is changing fast, and so are the choices people make about where they want to build their careers. A recent study highlights how men across the country are increasingly selective about work locations, driven by better opportunities, skill growth, and long-term stability.

According to the India Skills Report 2026, released by Wheebox, a global education and talent solutions organisation, there has been a noticeable shift in men’s employability levels and workplace preferences over the past few years. The report offers valuable insight into how prepared men are for today’s workforce and which states they see as the most promising for employment.

The data shows a clear improvement in men’s job readiness across India. In 2019, only 34.26 per cent of men who took the Global Employability Test were considered employable. This number stayed the same through 2020 and 2021, reflecting a period of slow progress.

Things began to change in 2022, when employability jumped sharply to 47.28 per cent. The upward trend continued in the following years, 47.20 per cent in 2023, 51.80 per cent in 2024, 53.46 per cent in 2025, and 51.5 per cent in 2026. While the slight dip in 2026 suggests ongoing skill gaps, the overall rise points to better access to education, training, and job-oriented skills for men across the country.

The report also highlights the top 10 Indian states men prefer to work in for 2026, based on employability data and professional movement trends: These states stand out for different reasons. Some offer large job markets and growing industries, while others attract professionals due to improving infrastructure, education systems, and regional development.

The popularity of these states reflects broader economic and social patterns. Regions with expanding industries, better connectivity, and supportive work environments naturally attract more male professionals. On the other hand, states that are slower in industrial growth or skill development may struggle to retain or attract talent.

Men’s employability is not just about numbers; it represents access to quality education, practical skills, and real career opportunities. Knowing where opportunities are concentrated helps job seekers make informed decisions about relocation, upskilling, and long-term career planning.

As India’s workforce continues to evolve, these 10 states have emerged as key employment hubs for men in 2026. More than just preferred destinations, they signal where professional growth, opportunity, and workforce development are coming together.