Southern Illinois is outperforming many larger metropolitan areas across critical workforce and economic metrics, and a recent report proves it. According to Area Development’s “Leading Metro Locations 2025: Smaller Markets, Stronger Momentum” report, which ranks all 949 metropolitan and micropolitan areas in the U.S., our region’s micropolitan hubs—Carbondale, Marion–Herrin, and Mt. Vernon—are proving that smaller markets can deliver big-market results, fueled by workforce adaptability and lower costs. 

Southern Illinois’ Standout Rankings and Proof Points 

Carbondale, IL (Midwest | Small | Micropolitan)
Home to Southern Illinois University Carbondale, a top research university and the only Carnegie-designated Research 1 institution serving a rural region; Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH), the region’s largest healthcare system; and a strong manufacturing and retail base, Carbondale ranks 67th in economic strength and 74th overall, landing it in the top 10% nationally. 

Marion–Herrin, IL (Midwest | Small | Micropolitan)
Boasting sector strengths in advanced manufacturing, highlighted by Aisin’s three manufacturing facilities and logistics center expansion; retail and entertainment, driven by Illinois’ first STAR Bond development projected to draw 1.5 million new visitors; and top-performing retailers pushing annual retail sales topping $1 billion, Marion ranks #180 in economic strength and 219th overall, placing it in the top 25% nationally. 

Mt. Vernon, IL (Midwest | Small | Micropolitan)
Mt. Vernon ranks #404 overall, with a strong position at #257 in Prime Workforce, which ranks in the top third nationally. Its sector strengths include manufacturing, anchored by Continental Tire, which grew from 47 employees in 1973 to more than 3,500 today, and bolstered by the completion of Texas-based Manner Polymers’ $54 million solar-powered PVC compounding plant; transportation and distribution, driven by its strategic I-57/I-64 interchange location; and industrial infrastructure featuring two shovel-ready parks, Class I rail access, and Mt. Vernon Outland Airport. 

Workforce rankings for Carbondale (#275) and Mt. Vernon (#257) even surpass major metros like Nashville (#332), Denver (#433), and St. Louis (894), a clear signal that Southern Illinois’ talent base is competitive on a national scale.

Metropolitan vs. Micropolitan 

In 2023, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) updated delineations for Core-Based Statistical Areas (CBSAs) using 2020 Census data: 

• Metropolitan areas: Urban core of 50,000+ residents plus surrounding counties with strong commuting ties. 

• Micropolitan areas: Urban core of 10,000–49,999 residents plus integrated counties. 

Under the updated OMB delineations, the former Carbondale–Marion metropolitan statistical area (MSA) was restructured into two distinct micropolitan statistical areas based on county lines: 

• Carbondale, IL micropolitan area, covering Jackson County 

• Marion–Herrin, IL micropolitan area, covering Williamson County 

Although the new OMB delineations make it more difficult for non-metro regions like Carbondale-Marion to appear in national rankings and comparative datasets, the facts are clear: Southern Illinois continues to outpace expectations, outperform regional peers, and punch above its weight. While the shift from an MSA to two micropolitan areas may reduce visibility for site selectors and complicate benchmarking, it does not diminish the region’s strengths. Southern Illinois offers a robust regional labor pool, world-class assets, strategic centrally located infrastructure that drives growth, and operates as a unified, competitive hub despite statistical changes. 

Why This Matters: A National Shift 

The 2025 analysis highlights a major realignment in U.S. competitiveness: smaller and mid-size markets are outperforming big cities on agility, affordability, and livability. These factors translate into lower operating costs, faster development timelines, and stronger workforce building, advantages Southern Illinois embodies. 

If you’re looking for a location that delivers big-market results without big-market costs, Southern Illinois is ready to compete for your next project. Connect with us today to explore shovel-ready sites, unmatched workforce strength, and a region built for growth. 

Note: Area Development and Chmura ranked 949 U.S. metropolitan and micropolitan areas using 24 economic and workforce indicators drawn from eight data sets maintained by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, and JobsEQ® by Chmura Economics & Analytics.