New economic data shows that the Youngstown/Warren region is entering a period of steady growth, marked by increases in civilian labor force, population and wages. These trends reflect a shift toward greater economic stability and renewed potential for long-term development.
The region’s civilian labor force, which had previously declined, is now stabilizing and showing signs of renewed growth.
According to Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED), an economic database maintained by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, after falling by 1.3% from 231,000 in 2020 to 228,000 in 2021, the labor force remained flat in 2022, then began to rebound. It grew by 0.44% in 2023 to 229,000, and then by 0.87% in 2024 to return to 231,000—matching its pre-2021 level. This trend marks a shift toward workforce recovery and reflects strengthening employer confidence and regional job availability.
The area is also seeing a reversal of its long-standing population decline. The region’s population in 2024 was 353,000, a 0.28% increase from 2023, according to MacroTrends. The current population of the region stands at 354,000—up 0.28% from 2024. These consecutive increases—modest but significant—reflect growing confidence in the region’s economic direction, housing market and quality of life.
Wages in the Youngstown/Warren metro have also risen steadily, according to FRED. The data shows from 2023 to 2024, average hourly wages grew by 3.6%, increasing from $25.23 to $26.13. Over the last five years, wages have increased by 17%, up from $22.34 in 2019. Since 2008, average hourly earnings have grown by 25.6%, rising from $20.81. This long-term trend reflects ongoing progress in labor market strength and economic recovery. At the same time, the region maintains a lower cost of living, allowing employers to operate efficiently and workers to retain more of their income.
The Chamber, in partnership with Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, is working to expand workforce participation by removing barriers that prevent residents from entering or staying in the labor force. The organizations conducted a community needs assessment that identified key obstacles—including transportation, childcare, mental health, substance use and soft skills gaps. The work, supported by a $50,000 workforce development grant from the PNC Foundation, is now informing targeted solutions to strengthen the local workforce.
Other important efforts focus on expanding access to childcare and developing partnerships that connect underserved populations to employment opportunities.
In parallel, the Chamber has formed other key partnerships on initiatives that support and advance the trends. They include joining forces with Eastgate Regional Council of Governments to lead population growth strategies, as well as aligning with Eastgate, the Western Reserve Port Authority and Valley Economic Development Partners on strategies to strengthen the region’s housing stock.
QUOTES
Guy Coviello, president & CEO, Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber
“These are meaningful trends that show progress. The workforce is strong, wages are rising and people are choosing to stay—and return—to this region. Through our work in expanding talent pipelines, addressing workforce barriers and supporting housing access, we’re laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth. Still, we know there’s more to do. We’re not only focused on the gains—we’re focused on closing gaps, raising incomes and making sure every part of the community benefits from the region’s progress.”
Jim Kinnick, executive director, Eastgate Regional Council of Governments
"We are excited to see the data substantiate the growth and rebirth of the region. Economic vitality is a team sport and the unified vision amongst partners is proving to be our roadmap to success. We have a focus on housing, and I applaud the collaboration and look forward to working with our communities, developers, builders and investors to get shovels in the ground.”
Teresa Miller, executive director, Valley Economic Development Partners
“This latest economic data is a clear sign that our region is moving in the right direction. We’re seeing the results of strategic investments, resilient small businesses and strong community partnerships. While challenges remain, this momentum gives us every reason to be optimistic about the future of our local economy.”
Shelley Murray, CEO, Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries
“We are encouraged by the positive economic indicators and population trends outlined in the report. These gains reflect not only momentum but opportunity. At Goodwill, we are optimistic that this upward trend will continue as we work together across sectors to eliminate barriers to employment and increase workforce participation throughout the Valley. Cross-sector collaboration remains key to creating a thriving, inclusive economy where all individuals can contribute and succeed.”
Anthony Trevena, executive director, Western Reserve Port Authority
“These positive economic indicators and trends are only the beginning. The measurable impact of recent transformative projects, such as Kimberly-Clark’s generational investment and Foxconn’s work in Lordstown, has yet to be fully reflected in the data.The work begins now to build on this momentum and ensure the Mahoning Valley becomes an even better place for the next generation to live, work and raise a family.”