By Quin Welch, Building Kentucky
Kentucky’s economy is booming, according to Site Selection Magazine’s new 2022 Governor’s Cup rankings.
The Commonwealth placed second nationally in 2022 — up from ninth in 2021 — in economic projects per capita, trailing only Kansas. The Bluegrass State also placed second in the South Central region for overall qualifying projects.
Economic success in Kentucky wasn’t just limited to statewide honors. 11 of the top 100 “micropolitan” areas — cities with populations between 10,000 and 50,000 — were Kentucky cities such as Bardstown, Glasgow, London, Murray, Frankfort, Richmond-Berea, Paducah, Campbellsville, Mayfield, Maysville and Middlesboro.
Kentucky’s three largest cities — Bowling Green, Lexington and Louisville — were also recognized for their economic successes. Bowling Green placed second nationally in total projects for metro areas with populations below 200,000 for the second consecutive year. Louisville came in at fifth for projects per capita for metropolitan areas with populations over 1 million, while Lexington-Fayette County placed 10th among best metros for the South Central region.
“Kentucky is an economic powerhouse, and the success we’re seeing is thanks to the people of the Commonwealth who are welcoming these businesses with open arms and helping them succeed in communities across the state,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “These awards are a huge honor, and it’s exciting to see Kentuckians working together to secure that lasting prosperity so every child can chase their dreams right here in our Commonwealth.”
