New Report: How Strong Midwest Cities Can Broaden Their Nationwide Appeal

The key to future growth in these 10 cities is growing out-of-state migration

NEW YORK, NY — While the “Rust Belt” narrative of struggling post-industrial cities dominates much of the public’s perception of the Midwest, there are many overlooked success stories in this region—cities that are performing above average but are not yet at “superstar” level. In a new Manhattan Institute report, City Journal contributing editor Aaron Renn explores what sets cities like Indianapolis and Grand Rapids apart—and what policies are key to their successful futures.

These cities in the middle—not rusting, not yet superstars—have outperformed expectations for their region. Their populations and labor markets are growing, and they have valuable economic sectors, civic assets, and amenities. According to Renn, in order for these cities to expand their appeal and compete with Sunbelt boomtowns like Nashville, they must expand their appeal outside of their home states.

While cold winters can’t be changed, Renn presents several key policy priorities for these cities to pursue in order to grow their appeal nationwide:

1. Eliminate legal and social barriers to entry for newcomers.
2. Create an economic development organization dedicated to attracting new residents with no historical ties to the state.
3. Focus on changing the city’s national brand through improved marketing.
4. Implement housing policies that keep prices affordable and allow for the development of additional urban-style areas as the market demands.

Click here to read the full report.