Wisconsin is an economically diverse state, with a mix of industries from manufacturing to agriculture and everything in between. The state has experienced economic growth over the past decade, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 1.4 percent in 2018.
The largest sector of the Wisconsin economy is manufacturing, which accounts for about 18 percent of the state’s total GDP. The state is home to major manufacturers such as Harley-Davidson, Johnson Controls, and Kohler Company. These companies employ thousands of workers and provide many jobs to the local economy.
Agriculture is another important part of Wisconsin’s economy, accounting for approximately 10 percent of total GDP. Dairy products are particularly important in Wisconsin, with the state ranking first in cheese production and second in butter production nationwide. Other major agricultural products include corn, soybeans, oats, potatoes, and cranberries.
The service sector also plays a major role in Wisconsin’s economy. This includes activities such as healthcare services, finance and insurance services, retail trade services, accommodation services (such as hotels), and food services (such as restaurants). This sector accounts for approximately 40 percent of total GDP in the state.
Tourism is also an important part of Wisconsin’s economy. The state has numerous attractions such as the Milwaukee Art Museum and Lambeau Field that draw tourists from all around the world every year. In 2018 alone there were over 92 million visitors who contributed more than $19 billion to the local economy through spending on lodging, food and beverage sales, transportation costs etc..
Wisconsin also has a thriving technology industry with many startups located throughout the state that are working on developing cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology solutions for businesses. Additionally, there are numerous universities throughout Wisconsin that provide educational opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers related to these fields or other STEM related fields.
Overall, Wisconsin has seen steady economic growth over recent years due to its diverse mix of industries ranging from manufacturing to agriculture to technology. The strong job market, tourism industry, and educational opportunities have helped make it an attractive place for businesses both large and small alike. With this combination it looks like Wisconsin’s economic future looks bright.
Top 3 Counties in Wisconsin
According to countryaah.com, main counties in Wisconsin include:
1. Dane County: Located in south-central Wisconsin, Dane County is the most populated county in the state with a population of 535,479. It’s home to the state capital of Madison and many other cities, towns, and villages. The county’s economy is strong, with major employers including University of Wisconsin-Madison, Epic Systems Corporation, and American Family Insurance. In addition to its thriving economy, Dane County boasts some of the best educational opportunities in the state with numerous public and private schools as well as two universities – University of Wisconsin-Madison and Edgewood College. Outdoor activities are plentiful in Dane County as well, with plenty of parks and trails for hiking, biking, fishing, camping, kayaking and more.
2. Waukesha County: Located just west of Milwaukee county in southeastern Wisconsin, Waukesha County has a population of 393,186. It’s home to several cities including Waukesha (the county seat), Brookfield and Oconomowoc. Waukesha County has an impressive economic base that includes manufacturing companies like Generac Power Systems Inc., Krones Inc., and Quad/Graphics Inc., as well as higher education institutions such as Carroll University and Waukesha Technical College. In addition to its thriving economy, Waukesha County offers an array of recreational activities from golfing at one of its many public courses to boating on Pewaukee Lake or visiting one of its many parks or outdoor attractions such as Minooka Park or Retzer Nature Center.
3. Brown County: Located in northeastern Wisconsin along Lake Michigan’s shoreline is Brown County which has a population of 255,907 people according to the 2019 census estimate. It’s home to Green Bay (the county seat) which is where the NFL team Green Bay Packers are based out of at Lambeau Field Stadium & Atrium Complex as well as many other cities throughout the county including De Pere and Allouez . Brown County offers a great quality lifestyle due to its booming economy anchored by employers such as Schneider National Inc., Aurora Health Care Inc., Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation & Johnsonville Sausage Co.. In addition to its strong job market it also offers plenty of recreational activities ranging from kayaking on Fox River or visiting one of its many parks such as Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary or Reforestation Camp Park & Nature Center for hiking & biking.
