Economy and Workforce

The Twin Cities region has a strong economic foundation by most key indicators. Still, broad economic conditions and trends in job and housing markets and our uniquely large and persistent inequities by race and ethnicity are eroding it. Community development researchers describe these economic ups and downs, and their implications for regional planning, policy, and systems.

Related information

Operation Metro Surge Impacts (2026-2028)

In early 2026, Operation Metro Surge caused significant harm to many across the Twin Cities region, but particularly immigrants and the small businesses that serve them.

Drawing on quantitative and qualitative research, this project examines the economic, workforce, and community conditions shaping small business success, particularly during and after Operation Metro Surge (OMS). This ongoing work provides insights to help local governments strengthen workforce development, support small business growth, and build a safer, more resilient regional economy.

Regional and Local Forecasts to 2050

Community development researchers develop long-range forecasts of when, where, and how much population, household, and job growth is expected in the seven-county region over a 30-year horizon.

The regional forecast to 2050 looks at our region’s position within the larger national economy to assess how economic strengths will attract people to the Twin Cities. Local forecasts to 2050 distribute regional growth to specific places.

For more information about the research products described on this page, please contact
Community Development Research
[email protected]