UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR (Events are subject to change. Consult okcchamber.com/events for the most recent updates.) OCTOBER 30 Bioscience on Tap 4-6 p.m. Innovation Hall 316 NE 9th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73104 NOVEMBER 19 State of the Economy 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73111 DECEMBER 17 Annual Meeting 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73111 JANUARY 28 Legislative Kickoff 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. National Cowboy & Western
Business and civic leaders recently gathered for the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s State of the Region event, which offered a clear, data-focused look at where Central Oklahoma stands—and where it needs to improve. The event featured a regional economic overview presented by Chamber President and CEO Christy Gillenwater. “We are all feeling this momentum, energy and excitement,” Gillenwater said. “There are so many wonderful things on the horizon, and there is always great work to be done” Gillenwater’s presentation highlighted population growth, labor force trends and industry strengths across the 10-county region, while calling attention to opportunities in direct air service, startup activity and job growth. Population growth concentrated in Central Oklahoma Data shows Central Oklahoma continues to drive the state’s population growth. Six of the 10 fastest-growing counties in Oklahoma are located within the Greater OKC region. Canadian County saw a 22% increase in population over the last five years, and McClain County followed closely with 21%. Cost of living remains a competitive advantage Among its aspirational and peer cities, OKC ranks as the most affordable in terms of cost of living. The rising home prices, however, are putting pressure on that advantage. The region is experiencing the fastest rate of home price growth. Gillenwater noted this underscores the need to address housing supply and affordability before pricing begins to erode OKC’s competitive edge. Steady job growth The OKC region holds a strong position in cost of living and median age among an aspirational and peer group of U.S. cities. However, the region ranks in the middle of the pack for job growth. The data suggests an opportunity for public and private sector leaders to focus on accelerating employment gains by investing in talent pipelines, infrastructure and workforce retention. STATE OF THE REGION: BUSINESS LEADERS EXPLORE DATA, GROWTH AND GAPS IN CENTRAL OKLAHOMA
Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St.
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