Chicago Named Top Corporate Metro Seven Years in a Row

Chicago Continues to Lead the Nation in Corporate Investment

On Monday, March 2, World Business Chicago and Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot announced Chicago has been ranked “Top Metro” in the U.S. for corporate investment by Site Selection magazine for the seventh consecutive year.

In 2019, the Chicago metro area once again saw more new and expanding corporate locations than any other region in the country.

“Unmatched talent, connectivity and infrastructure are found in every part of Chicago, which gives businesses the confidence they need to thrive and grow,” Mayor Lightfoot said. “Being named number one in the nation for corporate relocations and expansions is a testament to the strength of Chicago’s dynamic economy, powered by industry in communities across the city. We thank our corporate partners for their continued confidence in Chicago, and for their commitment to propel jobs and investment that will help see all Chicagoans prosper.”

In another sign of Chicago’s market strength, the City was also named number one in the U.S. for foreign direct investment (FDI), according to the 2019 IBM Global Location Trends report. The annual report, which outlines the latest trends in corporate location selection, named Chicago the top North American metro in foreign direct investment projects.

“Site Selection’s award confirms that everything from our diverse and highly educated pipeline of talent, our growing tech and innovation ecosystem, global access, affordability, and quality of life, make Chicago an ideal home for businesses looking to root, grow and expand,” said Andrea Zopp, President & CEO of World Business Chicago.

Site Selection tracked 416 business expansions and relocations in the Chicagoland MSA, accounting for more than $5 billion in investment. Major corporate expansions last year reflected growth in top industries, from tech to manufacturing, including Uber Freight, KeeperSecurity, Accenture, SpotHero, Snapsheet, Fyllo, Health Joy, and Farmer’s Fridge; citing Chicago’s diverse pipeline of talent, global connectivity and other core strengths as reasons why.

To read the full press release, visit WBC’s website here.