Research
Beyond Sunshine
A new strategy to build on our strengths, maintain our quality of life, and win in the modern global economy.
Rooted in a rich history, Northwest Florida is a vital artery of commerce home to forward-thinking companies at the forefront of aerospace, defense, IT, and manufacturing.
Population: 1.5 million residents
GDP: $73.8 billion
Employment landscape: 900,000 jobs
Average per capita income: $55,000
Largest Cities: Tallahassee, Pensacola
Includes the following counties: Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington.
Note: All regional summary data is from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Best Bets
Aerospace & Defense: GDP ($427.4 million); Direct Jobs (2,200); Economic Multiplier (2.7); Positive growth during recessions
Business Services: GDP ($4.2 billion); Direct Jobs (27,300); Economic Multiplier (2.5); 2022 Venture Capital ($24.6 million)
Distribution & Logistics
Distribution & eCommerce: GDP ($2.3 billion); Direct Jobs (7,900); Economic Multiplier (3.0); High Productivity
Transportation & Logistics: GDP ($1.4 billion); Direct Jobs (11,400); Economic Multiplier (2.6); High Productivity; 2022 Venture Capital ($1.5 million)
Emerging Clusters
IT & Tech (including cybersecurity and MedTech): GDP ($873.6 million); Direct Jobs (1,600); Economic Multiplier (3.0); High productivity; 2022 Venture Capital ($29.5 million)
Manufacturing: GDP ($2.8 billion); Direct Jobs (7,900); Economic Multiplier (2.8); High Tradability
Foundations
Government & Non-Profit: GDP ($17.2 billion); Direct Jobs: (132,200)
Real Estate: GDP ($6.3 billion); Direct Jobs (53,800)
