Annual Report Shows Strong Economic Indicators for DuPage County

LISLE, IL – Choose DuPage has released its findings from their 2016 Economic Indicators Report confirming DuPage County is coming off of a year that ended with strong economic indicators. DuPage continues to maintain a thriving business climate due to its low unemployment, skilled workforce, high quality of life and growing business and industry sectors. The findings reinforce DuPage County’s attractiveness for job creators and entrepreneurs during a time when the state struggles with high taxes, pension challenges and a hostile business climate.

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• DuPage County had the lowest unemployment rate in the Chicagoland six-county region at 4.4%, lower than both the State of Illinois (5.6%) and United States (4.6%).

• DuPage County‘s largest and fastest growing industries include healthcare, scientific and technical services and construction.

• Industrial vacancy rates were at 5.3%; DuPage County continues to have the lowest industrial vacancy rate in the region.

“The businesses climate in DuPage County continues to thrive as local commerce and industry continues to flourish,” said John Carpenter, president and CEO of Choose DuPage. “In fact, while surrounding communities are increasing the sales tax burden on local shoppers, DuPage County dropped its sales tax by a quarter cent last June, putting $36 million back into taxpayer pockets. Led by Chairman Dan Cronin, our County Board ensures DuPage continues to be the economic development model for the Chicagoland region community.”

DuPage County consistently maintains the lowest unemployment rate in the Chicagoland region and boasts an AAA bond rating due to its strong economy, fiscal management and healthy budgetary performance. The DuPage County education system provides a skilled and educated workforce for employers—over 92% of residents graduate high school with half of them going on to earn a bachelor’s degree or higher; this is the highest success rate in the state, and much higher than the national average of 32.5%.

The Choose DuPage 2016 Economic Indicators Report can be viewed in its entirety at www.choosedupage.com