New U.S. Census data highlights a critical demographic challenge for the Cincinnati region: only 38.2% of the metro area’s population is in their prime working years (ages 25 to 54). Among 20 peer metropolitan regions, Cincinnati ranks 17th—well behind fast-growing cities like Austin (46.9%) and Denver (45.6%).
This matters. A strong share of prime working-age residents is closely tied to a region’s ability to grow its economy, attract new jobs, and build housing. Cities leading in this metric—such as Austin and Denver—also boast the highest concentrations of Millennials, sustained job growth, and booming real estate development.
Cincinnati, by contrast, is aging faster and struggling to draw younger residents. That has real implications for our ability to compete in the national landscape for talent, innovation, and investment.
Why Young Professionals Are Key to Economic Growth
According to data available at data.cincinnatichamber.com:
Cincinnati ranks 17th out of 20 in prime working-age population (38.2%)
Millennial share of population ranks 16th
Labor force participation is 66.1%, ranking 15th
Job growth from 2019 to 2024 was just 2%, placing us 12th among peers
Despite this, the region maintains a solid GDP per capita ($70,442) and strong export output
The takeaway? While our economic fundamentals are healthy, we risk falling behind if we don’t have the workforce to drive future growth.
3 Strategic Focus Areas to Attract Young Professionals
To remain competitive and vibrant, Cincinnati must become more attractive to the next generation of workers. Here’s how we can start:
1. Build Housing and Transit That Work for Young Adults
Younger residents are seeking affordable, walkable neighborhoods with access to transit, jobs, and cultural amenities. Expanding housing options near key job centers and investing in multimodal transportation will be critical.
2. Grow Jobs in High-Potential Sectors
Industries like tech, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare are drawing younger workers nationwide. To compete, Cincinnati needs to focus economic development strategies around these fast-growing fields.
3. Foster a More Inclusive, Welcoming Region
Beyond jobs, young people are choosing cities that reflect their values. Diversity, inclusion, and a strong sense of belonging are essential to attracting and retaining talent. Cincinnati must prioritize policies and investments that create an equitable and inclusive community.
Cincinnati has what it takes to be a magnet for young professionals: an affordable cost of living, rich cultural assets, and a deep sense of community. But to secure our long-term prosperity, we must act with urgency. The future of our region depends on attracting and empowering the people who will build it.
