Local area among best in state, nation for job growth

SANDUSKY — The Sandusky Metropolitan Statistical Area was ranked as the fifth-fastest-growing job market in the U.S. in April 2026, according to newly released employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Federal agencies report jobs, wages and other economic data by a metropolitan statistical area, a geography set by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget around a population center and its economically connected surrounding area. These employment figures are compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics through its current employment statistics program, comparing April 2026 employment levels to April 2025. The April jobs data, released June 1, places Sandusky among a national top five that includes metropolitan areas in California, Massachusetts, Michigan and New Jersey. Rapid rise The Sandusky Metropolitan Statistical Area is one of 393 such areas nationwide and is made up of two counties: Erie and Ottawa. Among all metropolitan areas nationwide, Sandusky posted a nearly 3% year-over-year increase in total nonfarm employment, making it the fastest-growing metro area in Ohio and the second-fastest-growing metro area in the Midwest. "The Sandusky Metropolitan Area being recognized among the fastest-growing job markets in the nation is a testament to the momentum building on Ohio's North Shore," said Eric Wobser, CEO for Greater Sandusky Partnership. "As employers invest, communities collaborate and quality of life improves, we are proving that a mid-sized freshwater coastal region can compete for jobs, talent and investment on a national stage." The data shows how the Sandusky Metropolitan Statistical Area has now recorded four consecutive months of strong year-over-year employment growth with employment increasing: • 4.4% in January • 4.2% in February • 3.9% in March • 3% in April The growth outpaced every other metropolitan area in Ohio. The next-highest Ohio metro recorded growth of less than one-third of one percent during the same period. "What's particularly noteworthy is that this isn't an isolated data point," said Jeff Kerr, director of planning and policy for the partnership. "We're seeing a sustained pattern of job growth over multiple months, and this region has consistently ranked among the strongest-performing markets in the country throughout 2026." Riding the positive wave of momentum The strong employment numbers come amid continued public and private investment throughout the region, including development activity, tourism-related growth, infrastructure improvements and business expansion efforts. The region is well-positioned for continued growth. Through the first four months of 2026 alone, projects facilitated by the Erie County Port Authority and Huron Joint Port Authority are expected to generate more than $47.5 million in capital investment, creating 65-plus new jobs. Looking ahead, the region has significant development opportunities, including more than 1,700 acres available for private development through NASA's enhanced use lease program at the NASA Neil Armstrong Test Facility. "This region continues to benefit from strategic investments, strong partnerships, and the unique assets that make this a great place to live, work, visit, and do business. Our goal is to build on this momentum and ensure growth translates into long-term prosperity for businesses and communities across the region," Wobser said. Where does Sandusky stand? Here's a look at the Sandusky Metropolitan Statistical Area as of today: • No. 1 fastest-growing job market in Ohio • No. 2 fastest-growing job market in the Midwest • No. 5 fastest-growing job market in the nation Speaking up Many people are encouraged by this latest report, including: • Erie County commissioner Steve Shoffner: It is very exciting to see such positive data-driven results for the actions, activities and investments we have seen throughout our region, but particularly in Erie County. Our vision, planning and implementation of those plans, is working better than in any other metro area in Ohio. The capital investment opportunities realized through our Erie County Port Authority are helping lead the way in making Erie County, Sandusky and our region, one of the best places to work, play and raise a family. These job growth numbers are real and they are sustainable, but we must remain committed to collaborating on initiatives and plans that focus on a regionalized level of cooperation. This is a very exciting time to be living in Erie County. • Ottawa County Improvement Corp. executive director Chris Singerling: This recognition is a powerful reflection of the momentum building across our region. It speaks to the strength of our diverse economy, our employers and workforce, our public-private partnerships and our continued investment in the future. • Sandusky city manager John Orzech: This is encouraging news for Sandusky and the region. This kind of growth comes from a regional effort, and we're grateful for the partnerships we've built with the Greater Sandusky Partnership and others across Erie and Ottawa counties.