The Cincinnati Regional Chamber’s Center for Research and Data (CRD) unveiled its 2024 State of the Region Report today. Presented by First Financial Bank, the report offers data and analysis on economic and community indicators, comparing the region's performance to peer cities.
This year's report includes updated comparisons among Cincinnati's peer cities and intraregional datasets highlighting regional strengths and opportunities. New additions cover immigration, generational change, population growth, arts and culture, as well as transportation indicators.
Brandon Rudd, Director of the Center for Research & Data at the Cincinnati Regional Chamber, stated: “The State of the Region makes it clear that Cincinnati’s potential for growth remains strong. We’re proud to present a report with more data and statistics than ever before. This year’s report has an industry focus on arts and culture, a section dedicated to transportation insights, and a deeper focus on generational change throughout our region. As always, our peer benchmarks make clear the Cincinnati Region’s strengths and guide efforts to continue to improve to make Cincinnati a region where everyone feels like they belong.”
A key theme from 2023 continues in this year's report: the link between population growth and economic development is evident when examining GDP figures. Exports such as jet engines and pharmaceuticals position Cincinnati second among peers in regional exports per capita. Immigrants offer significant economic growth potential due to higher household incomes and labor participation rates compared to native residents.
Cultural assets are another focal point of the report. The gross regional product for arts and culture industries reached $5.4 billion in 2023—a 31% increase since 2020—and jobs in the film industry grew by 46%, ranking fifth among peer regions. Additionally, Cincinnati captured about 60% of Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credits in 2024.
Brendon Cull, President and CEO of the Cincinnati Regional Chamber commented: “The data in the Chamber’s State of the Region report provides a foundational understanding of how we can grow our region’s population, economy and cultural vibrancy. Ultimately, it is data that will inform and improve our regional initiatives, enabling smarter, more strategic and effective outcomes."
The CRD aims to deliver data-driven analysis on vital regional indicators supporting informed decision-making around talent attraction, inclusive economic growth, and communitywide goals.
For further details or inquiries regarding membership offerings or leadership programs offered by the Chamber visit cincinnatichamber.com.