PITTSBURGH -- We are not San Francisco, Boston or Houston, but a new study shows Pittsburgh has cracked the top 15 cities for young professionals to live and pursue careers.

Forbes.com has ranked the top 40 cities for young professionals to live, and Pittsburgh has climbed to No. 13.

Researchers say strong performing companies like Allegheny Technologies, Ansoft and Consol Energy have helped lift the steel city's post-industrial economy.

In fact, Pittsburgh beat out cities like Philadelphia, No. 14, and Atlanta, No. 17 on the list.

"I think the secret's out," said Erin Molchany, executive director of Pittsburgh Urban Magnet Program. She thinks the Forbes Study is right on the money.

"It's a really fun place to find your niche, to find your networks, to really explore the city. It's totally accessible," said Molchany. "Cost of living is really affordable, people realize Pittsburgh has the amenities a big city might have but with a small town neighborhood feel."

However, researchers say Pittsburgh still lags behind when it comes to salaries and attracting graduates. Cities like Chicago, ranked No. 7, and Raleigh, ranked No. 12, do a better job keeping their new graduates in town.

Among the worst metropolitan areas for young processionals to live are Las Vegas and Miami. Tampa was ranked the worst metropolitan area for young professionals to live.