Demographics & Data
Data drives decisions. At River Ridge, we make it easy to see why companies choose to invest here. With a workforce of more than 900,000 people within a 50-mile radius, a fast-growing population, and more than $3+ billion in annual economic impact, the numbers tell a clear story, this region delivers.
The labor market is large, skilled, and engaged. The infrastructure is already in place. And the economic activity already underway reinforces that River Ridge isn’t just a development site. It’s a fully activated regional driver.
- Labor force within 50 miles: 942,109
- Total employed: 902,561
- Unemployment rate: 4.2%
- Average annual wage: $57,463
- Average hourly wage: $30.85
- Total covered employment (Q3 2024): 797,946
Source: FRED, StatsAmerica, January 2025 (via Big Radius Tool)
These numbers reflect a regional economy anchored in logistics, advanced manufacturing, health sciences, and skilled trades. The workforce is not only available—it’s ready.
- Total population (50-mile radius): Approximately 1.5 million
- Median age: 38.1
- Median household income: $62,840
- Cost of living index (Indiana): 91.1 (U.S. average = 100)
- Commuting workforce draw: Strong daily inflow from surrounding counties
Sources: U.S. Census, ACS 2023; Indiana Department of Workforce Development
The River Ridge region offers a stable, affordable base for both employees and employers.
- High school graduate or higher: 88.9%
- Associate degree or some college: 30.4%
- Bachelor’s degree or higher: 24.7%
Source: U.S. Census, ACS 2023 5-Year Estimates
- Ivy Tech Community College – Sellersburg
- Purdue Polytechnic – New Albany
- University of Louisville
- Regional career and technical education (CTE) high schools
Training programs align with key industry clusters and are responsive to employer needs.
- Total economic output (2024): $3.04 billion
- Jobs directly and indirectly supported: 18,558
- Companies operating at River Ridge: More than 80
- Total acreage: 6,000+ developable acres
- Annual payroll impact: $933 million
Source: River Ridge Development Authority 2024 Annual Report
These numbers show that River Ridge is not a speculative project. It’s a functioning engine of the Southern Indiana economy.
Talent, Reach, and Real Momentum
River Ridge offers access to talent from across the region — not just within a single county or city. With excellent commute times, a strong work ethic, and cost-effective wages, employers here are able to recruit and retain skilled teams in nearly every operational category.
The Numbers Behind Smart Growth
Every number on this page reinforces a central truth: River Ridge is ready. This is a place where the data backs the decision, where performance meets potential, and where the right investments are already paying off.
