AUBURN, Ala.- Auburn ranked No. 10 on the Milken Institute's list of the 2025 Best-Performing Small Cities, which tracked the relative performance of 403 metropolitan areas across the U.S. Auburn was the highest-ranked small Alabama city on the list, which appeared in the institute's annual Best-Performing Cities report. Huntsville was the highest-ranked large city in Alabama, coming in at No. 4 on that list.

The Milken Institute's Best-Performing Cities report ”reflects metropolitan areas’ effectiveness at promoting employment, wages and key industries that drive economic growth while ensuring widespread access to economic opportunities.” Cities are ranked based on 13 metrics that combine labor market conditions, high-tech growth and access to economic opportunities.

Auburn gained four positions from its 2024 ranking. The report highlighted the area's "remarkable job growth that shows no signs of slowing." Employment grew 4.6% from 2022 to 2023, and job growth increased by 4% from July 2023 to July 2024. That was paired with an increase of wages, which grew 10.5% from 2022 to 2023.

Auburn also placed in the top quartile for high-tech GDP growth measures. This was driven by growth in the data-processing sector and the telecommunications industry.

"It's no secret that Auburn continues to be at the forefront of sustained economic growth here in Alabama," Auburn Mayor Ron Anders said. "As the home of both a preeminent university and a thriving, innovative and growing business community, Auburn's economic future continues to be bright. We're grateful for all those who play a part in making that happen and look forward to what's ahead."

For more about the institute’s methodology and other details, view the full report.