Southern Illinois is outperforming many larger metropolitan regions across key economic and workforce measures, according to a new national report.
The analysis from Area Development shows southern Illinois micro-politan hubs, including Carbondale, Marion–Herrin, and Mt. Vernon, ranking well above expectations and ahead of many major cities. The report highlights workforce strength, economic momentum, and cost competitiveness, areas where southern Illinois continues to excel.
Carbondale ranks 67th in economic strength and 74th overall, placing it in the top 10 percent nationally.
Marion–Herrin ranks 180th in economic strength and 219th overall, placing it in the top 25 percent nationally.
Mt. Vernon ranks 404th overall and 257th in prime workforce, placing it in the top third nationally for workforce strength.
The Area Development report says workforce rankings for Mt. Vernon at 257 and Carbondale at 275 exceed several large metropolitan areas, including Nashville at 332, Denver at 433, and St. Louis at 894.
