Site Selection Magazine has named Bowling Green as the #1 city in the U.S. for economic development.
Bowling Green takes the top spot in the category for communities with populations under 200,000.
This is the 11th consecutive year Bowling Green has been recognized in the annual ranking, each time placing as top 6th or higher.
How They Rank
The ranking evaluates communities on their capacity to draw significant investments.
Site Selection Magazine assesses communities based on their prowess in drawing investments, utilizing a comprehensive 10-factor index.
Among Kentucky cities, Bowling Green leads in first place of its category. Lexington earned a spot in the Top Ten for the population bracket of 200,000 to one million people.
“2023 has been a year where South Central Kentucky not only kept pace with economic trends but actively set them. Our region has emerged as a beacon of innovation and a hub for cutting-edge technology and advanced manufacturing on a global scale,” said Ron Bunch, President and CEO of the Chamber. “The distinction we’ve earned today is a shining example of what we can accomplish when we unite as a community. Our local businesses, from small startups to large corporations, have shown exceptional resilience and a healthy attitude towards growth, setting the stage for South Central Kentucky to lead with innovation. This accolade is a tribute to their hard work and the robust ecosystem we’ve built together.”
Bowling Green’s Growth
In 2023, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce announced 16 new projects, including 4 new business attractions and 12 expansions, representing $118 million in capital investments. These projects are expected to create 984 new jobs, contributing over $3.6 billion to the local economy over the next decade and supporting an additional 1,690 jobs in the community.
According to a press release, city and county leaders emphasized their collaborative efforts that have placed the region in the national spotlight.
“Thanks to the synergy among the Chamber, the Fiscal Court, and the City of Bowling Green, we’ve secured our position as a center for innovation and economic growth. My deepest gratitude goes out to all stakeholders in our success,” said Bowling Green Mayor Todd Alcott.
Echoing this sentiment, Warren County Judge-Executive Doug Gorman added, “Being named the #1 Economic Development Organization in the nation is not just our achievement but a celebration of the entire Bowling Green community’s spirit. This recognition belongs to every member of our community who contributes daily to our vibrant economic landscape. Together, we are setting a benchmark for what it means to build a thriving, resilient economy.”
Site Selection Magazine is a publication dedicated to the corporate real estate and economic development sectors.
The magazine provides yearly analyses that are considered essential by many industry professionals.
For more details on Site Selection’s rankings, visit www.siteselection.com.
