The Chicago metropolitan area reached a record number of jobs in May, underscoring the strength and resilience of the regional economy.
Even more notable for Lake County, the region has now recorded six consecutive months of year-over-year job growth, signaling sustained momentum among local employers and continued strength in workforce and economic development partnerships. This growth reflects ongoing collaboration across businesses, educators, workforce partners, and local leaders who are helping create conditions where companies can invest and talent can thrive.
The gains across both the metro area and Lake County highlight Illinois’ continued commitment to supporting business growth and long-term economic competitiveness. Each new job represents a business investing, a worker finding opportunity, and a community growing stronger—momentum Lake County is well positioned to continue building on.
Our new 2025 Annual Report is a powerful snapshot of the growth, collaboration and innovation that defines Lake County as a premier destination for business and talent. We are celebrating a year of record-setting economic performance, transformational business investments, workforce development achievements, and regional collaboration that continues to strengthen Lake County’s competitive position.
From major life sciences and advanced manufacturing projects to new housing initiatives and talent pipeline investments, Lake County demonstrates what is possible when business, government, education, and community leaders work together toward a shared vision.
Through the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP), Lake County is helping lead a unified strategy that positions Chicagoland as a globally competitive super-region — one that leverages world-class talent, infrastructure, innovation, and connectivity to attract investment and create jobs across all our communities. The partnership has driven thousands of jobs and major business wins by showing the world that our region is stronger together. As a result:
🏆 Chicagoland is celebrating its 13th consecutive year as the #1 U.S. metro for corporate relocations and expansions
🏆 Lake County just had its best year on record for economic growth and was named one of the top 10 counties in the country for economic development
For Lake County, GCEP means greater visibility, stronger business attraction opportunities, and a seat at the table in shaping the future economy of the entire region. It’s proof that collaboration — not competition — is how we win..
Lake County continues to stand out as a premier location for corporate headquarters, offering a powerful combination of access to top talent, strategic proximity to the Chicago metro economy, strong transportation networks, and a collaborative business environment. We're exploring the key factors driving HQ location decisions—and why more companies are choosing Lake County as a place to grow, lead, and invest for the long term.
Our work would not be possible without the leadership of our Board of Governors & the support of our investors. Congratulations to our newest board members:
Darrell Polfliet, Manager of Government and Community Affairs at Comcast
Bufi Selimos, Assistant VP, Operations at Endeavor Health
Steve Whitehill, Market President at Huntington National Bank
