Southern Illinois is quietly surpassing many of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas in economic strength and workforce performance, according to a new national report. The 2025 Leading Metro Locations report from Area Development evaluated 949 metropolitan and micropolitan regions across the United States. Several Southern Illinois communities ranked significantly above expectations—and ahead of much larger cities—in key categories such as workforce strength, economic momentum, and cost competitiveness. Micropolitan hubs including Carbondale, Marion–Herrin, and Mt. Vernon were highlighted as examples of smaller markets delivering strong economic results.
Carbondale ranked 67th in economic strength and 74th overall, placing it in the top 10 percent of markets nationwide. The city’s economy is anchored by major employers like Southern Illinois University Carbondale and Southern Illinois Healthcare. The report also notes the contributions of Carbondale’s manufacturing base and retail sector to the regional economy.
The Marion–Herrin micropolitan area ranked 180th in economic strength and 219th overall, putting it in the top 25 percent nationally. Advanced manufacturing continues to play a major role, alongside ongoing logistics expansion. The area’s retail and entertainment growth was noted as well, including Illinois’ first STAR Bond-supported development, which is projected to draw 1.5 million visitors annually and generate over $1 billion in yearly retail sales.