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Posted on: June 30, 2026
How is metro Atlanta’s economy doing? A diverse group of business and civic leaders wrestled with this question during ARC’s latest Regional Economic Development Forum, held on June 24 at the 505 Courtland building in downtown Atlanta.
The ideas came fast and furious during a lively discussion facilitated by ARC Planning Administrator Keri Stevens. She led the group through a “SWOT” analysis to identify the region’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, with a focus on addressing barriers to economic mobility.
It’s a critical issue. A recent Harvard study ranked metro Atlanta last among the 50 largest regions for upward mobility.
The input will help shape an update to the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), set for adoption next year. With a focus on economic mobility, this CEDS update has the theme “Pathways to Opportunity”
The discussion drew a notably broad mix of voices, including residents, elected officials from different parts of the region, and representatives from grassroots organizations serving residents in need.
Here are some highlights from the conversation:
Participants said the Atlanta region benefits from a strong higher education system, a strong entrepreneurial spirit, a world-class airport with a direct rail connection, and a business-friendly environment.
As a result, metro Atlanta has become a hub for Fortune 500 companies and dynamic start-ups alike.
From a quality-of-life perspective, participants said the region boasts a growing network of multi-use trails, vibrant arts and culture scene and a highly diverse population. Metro Atlanta is also home to lively, walkable mixed-use “Main Street” districts and a busy calendar of festivals, concerts, and major sporting events.
Major issues identified by the group included elevated housing costs, a major contributor to another weakness – the region’s rising income inequality. Participants also said communities in metro Atlanta suffer from lack of access to quality health care.
Education was singled out as an area of concern. Many students lack clear connections to jobs and training opportunities, and educational quality varies widely throughout the region.
The group also pointed to data centers as a major pain point, as the facilities powering the AI boom can stress resources like energy and water and impact nearby communities.
Metro Atlanta is poised to move forward on a number of fronts. From an economic investment perspective, participants said the region should aim to grow its creative, aerospace, and renewable energy sectors.
Other opportunities identified included: increasing transit connectivity throughout the region, expanding the region’s multi-use trail network, and better supporting legacy businesses that may be struggling with generational succession.
When asked what could set the region back, the participants pointed to the region’s challenge with endemic poverty and lack of upward mobility. They also said competing Sunbelt metro areas pose a growing threat to the Atlanta region’s continued prosperity.
Other threats identified included lack of residential housing in the region’s downtown core, rising cost of key services like day care, and the need for better transportation options to access good jobs
We want your feedback! Visit our CEDS plan update page and click on the “Help Shape Our Plan” tab to access the SWOT analysis and offer your insights and perspective.
ARC’s Strategic Partners are committed to fostering collaborative regional approaches that improve quality of life in metro Atlanta. Their support elevates ARC leadership programs, research and events throughout the year. Learn more.
