Boise ranks #20 on this year’s Most Dynamic Metropolitans report, underlining the city’s efforts to create an economy that uplifts everyone in our community and provides access to opportunities to succeed on a global stage.
The report, presented by the Heartland Forward Institute for Economic Renewal, provides a benchmark for identifying growth areas across the country by measuring where communities are thriving and showcasing the strategies these communities are using effectively.
“It is exciting to receive recognition for our growing economy and strong workforce,” said Mayor Lauren McLean. “Boise continues to be a vibrant city where everyone can find belonging, whether in their career or in the quality of life we enjoy here.”
Boise was highlighted in the report for the $1.5 billion CHIPS and Science Act investment in the city through Micron Technology, which will be used to build a new facility in the city, will create an estimated 2,000 new technical and operational jobs in the area, and include an additional $25 billion investment from Micron over the next two decades.
Boise has been among the top 25 metros since the first inception of the report six years ago. The report evaluates 380 Metropolitan Statistical Areas across the U.S., ranking them on indicators such as employment, average annual pay, real GDP growth, per capita income and measures of entrepreneurial activity. These metrics provide insights into the diverse economic trajectories of U.S. regions, enabling policymakers and stakeholders to benchmark progress and identify strategies for growth.
In addition to the advanced manufacturing and semiconductors industry impact in the city, the report states that Boise possesses fantastic natural amenities that appeal to highly skilled workers seeking a balance between their careers and the outdoors.
The ranking also points to metrics that show Boise possesses a highly valued and productive workforce, including the city’s strength in performance from medium-term indicators (2018–2023): Employment growth during this period reached 17.3%, seventh among all metros; average annual pay growth over the five years was 30.1% (66th); and medium-term real GDP growth was 28.3% (15th among all metros).
