As part of the Iowa City metropolitan statistical area, or MSA, Washington County along with Johnson County ranks in the top 40 overall among 379 United States metro areas. Low unemployment and wage or salary growth contributed to this ranking. The list analyzed economic and workforce data and the Iowa City MSA ranked 12th in the “small cities” category.

Washington Economic Development Group Director Ed Raber says a combination of factors has helped, including an increase in manufacturing employment, skilled labor, and a renewed interest in housing and community development projects. The list was published by Area Development magazine in its “Leading Locations” across the country.