July 30th, 2019

Grand Rapids named No.1 mid-sized metro for economic growth potential

In its 15th annual ranking, Business Facilities' 2019 Metro Rankings Report named Grand Rapids, Mich. as the No.1 mid-sized metro in the country for economic growth potential.

Greater Grand Rapids Kent County Rankings

In its 15th annual ranking, Business Facilities' 2019 Metro Rankings Report named Grand Rapids, Mich. as the No.1 mid-sized metro in the country for economic growth potential.

The magazine highlighted several areas the city leads in, including applied technology, sustainable practices and industrial design. It also noted its large industry clusters for metals, plastics, biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, production technology, automotive, office furniture and food processing.

Information technology (IT) was also noted as an emerging industry for the region. West Michigan's tech industry has grown significantly over the years, and the IT sector in Grand Rapids has become one of the fastest growing in the nation, at 18.5%.

Economic Growth Potential (Mid-Sized)

  1. Grand Rapids, Mich.
  2. Madison, Wisc.
  3. Birmingham, Ala.
  4. Richmond, Va.
  5. Lexington, Ky.
  6. Jersey City, N.J.
  7. Reno, Nev.
  8. Boise, Idaho
  9. Virginia Beach, Va.
  10. Lubbock, Texas

View the full ranking report on the Business Facilities website.