Data That Drives Smart Decisions
Making the right business move starts with the right data. South Western Kentucky offers a wealth of demographic, economic, and workforce insights designed to support data-driven business decisions. With a dynamic population, a growing labor force, and competitive business costs, our region delivers the key metrics that businesses need to succeed.
Why South Western Kentucky Stands Out
The region’s population is steadily increasing to a 5% growth through 2028 due to a business-friendly environment, low cost of living, and high quality of life. South Western Kentucky attracts both families and professionals, strengthening the talent pipeline and expanding consumer markets.
With a workforce fueled by industry-specific training programs, South Western Kentucky boasts a strong labor pool ready for careers in advanced manufacturing, logistics, aerospace, and agriculture. Thousands of skilled veterans from Fort Campbell also transition into the civilian workforce annually, adding leadership and technical expertise.
Businesses in South Western Kentucky benefit from one of the lowest costs of living in the U.S., affordable real estate, business-friendly tax rates, and property taxes among the lowest in the nation. These factors help companies reduce operational expenses and maximize long-term profitability.
From nationally recognized school districts to highly regarded colleges and universities, the region supports lifelong learning and career development. Customized workforce training programs provide tailored solutions for businesses looking to upskill their teams. There are 200 universities and Technical Colleges within a 200 miles radius of SWK.
1. University of Missouri - St. Louis
2. Washington University - St. Louis
3. St. Louis University
4. Southern IL University - Edwardsville
5. Eastern Illinois University
6. Indiana State University
7. Indiana University - Bloomington
8. Vincennes University
9. Southeast Missouri State University
10. Southern IL University - Carbondale
11. University of Southern Indiana
12. University of Louisville
13. University of Kentucky
14. Eastern Kentucky University
15. Arkansas State University
16. University of Tennessee - Martin
17. Murray State University
18. Austin Peay University
19. Western Kentucky University
20. Tennessee State University
21. Belmont University
22. Vanderbilt University
23. Middle Tennessee State University
24. Tennessee Technological University
25. University of Memphis
26. University of North Alabama
27. University of Alabama - Huntsville
28. Alabama A&M University
29. University of Tennesee - Chattanooga
Population Overview:
- Steady Growth: The region’s population continues to expand due to economic opportunities and livability. The region’s population is steadily increasing to a 5% growth through 2028.
- Median Age: A youthful workforce with an average age of 34.
Economic Indicators:
- Unemployment Rate: Consistently below the national average.
- Median Household Income: On an upward trend due to job growth and rising wages.
Educational Attainment:
- Skilled Graduates: Thousands of industry-ready graduates from regional technical colleges and universities each year.
- High School Graduation Rate: Above the national average, reflecting strong educational foundations.
Labor Force Highlights:
- Diverse Skill Base: Experienced professionals in sectors like advanced manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, and technology.
- Veteran Workforce: Thousands of transitioning veterans enter the civilian labor force annually from nearby Fort Campbell.
Explore County-Level Demographics
South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council proudly represents a multi-county region offering a diverse range of communities, talent pools, and business opportunities. Explore individual county data below for detailed workforce statistics, population trends, and economic indicators:
Explore Regional Demographic Data
Understanding a region’s demographics is critical when making site selection decisions. South Western Kentucky’s strong population growth, skilled labor force, and competitive economic indicators create the perfect environment for business expansion and long-term success.