WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — The City of Wausau has been recognized again for it’s continued growth.
In an updated data release from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Wausau ranks as the fastest growing metro area in Wisconsin for job and wage growth. The city released a press release detailing the ranking and other national rankings.
Director of Planning for the City of Wausau Chris Schock says those outside the area would think bigger cities like Madison or Eau Claire would be the fastest growing in the state. “A lot of local folks know how succesful Wausau is from a job creation perspective. But sometimes we might even think that Madison or other areas, or Eau Claire or something like that is more succesful. But that’s not true.”
Schock believes most of the city’s growth in 2018 for jobs and wages comes from the city’s economy ties to growing industries. “A strength in manufacturing. The Wausau economy is very tied to technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. And those industries obviously remain very strong. And have seen considerable job growth over the past couple of years.”
Schock says development in the business campus and in housing has also helped Wausau have increased job and wage growth. “The expansion of the business campus is a bit part of it. Just recently Great Lakes Chese is finalizing their major expansion. There’s just been continued growth, continued expansion and new housing choices. I think folks know that the housing market locally is strong and it’s really strong because of job and wage growth.”
2018 was a record year for the city of Wausau for appearing in national rankings. This included recognition from organizations like ZipRecruiter and Christian Science Monitor.