Wooster Recognized as a Top Micropolitan in Site Selection Magazine’s Governor’s Cup Rankings

Wooster, OH – March 2, 2026 – Wooster, Ohio has once again been recognized as a leading
micropolitan in the nation, ranking third in Site Selection Magazine’s prestigious Governor’s Cup
rankings. This achievement places Wooster in the top 5% of all micropolitan areas in the United
States for economic development and business growth.
Site Selection Magazine’s annual rankings evaluate micropolitan areas—cities with populations
between 10,000 and 50,000—based on the number of qualifying business development projects
within their county. Qualifying projects must have an investment of $1 million or more, create at least
20 new jobs, or involve the construction of a building or addition of 20,000 square feet or more. The
Wooster Micropolitan ranking reflects Wayne County’s strong economic climate, strategic
investments and commitment to fostering business growth.
The Wooster Micropolitan submitted 15 qualifying projects from throughout Wayne County in 2025,
just one project shy of second-place Findlay, Ohio. New to first place was Williston, North Dakota
with 21 qualifying projects. “Being recognized in this way speaks to the strength and diversity of our
local business community,” said Maribeth Burns, president of the Wayne Economic Development
Council. “Our continued success is the result of intentional collaboration among businesses, local
leadership, and organizations focused on creating long-term economic vitality.”
Recent business expansions and investments that contributed to Wooster’s third place ranking,
included projects from throughout Wayne County, such as those by Centerra Co-Op, Country Roofing
& Exteriors, Deco-Crete Supply, FedEx, Granite Ridge Farms, Ivan Weaver Construction, Jarrett
Companies, Luke Engineering & Anodizing, Mull Iron, PRC-Saltillo, Quality Plastics, The Will-Burt
Company, The Wooster Brush Company and Wiles Hanzie – Flo Properties.

“This recognition is meaningful, but it also reinforces our responsibility to keep moving forward,” said
Burns. “We’re focused on fostering long-term growth and opportunity while building on the
partnerships that make success like this possible.”
Ohio leads the nation with 20 cities on Site Selection’s list, totaling 114 qualifying projects. To view
the list in its entirety, visit Top Micropolitans of 2025
 

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