Local economy shows growth, focus on higher-wage jobs
Mesa County continues to see steady economic growth, with a focus on creating higher-paying jobs and expanding key industries.
At the March 24 administrative public hearing, the Grand Junction Economic Partnership (GJEP) shared its annual update with the Board of Mesa County Commissioners, outlining recent progress and trends in the local economy.
What the data shows
In 2025, GJEP reported:
- 224 net new jobs created, with 943 additional jobs projected
- An average wage of about $68,000, higher than the county average of about $57,000
- Nearly $195 million in total economic impact
That impact includes job creation, business expansion and capital investment across the region. The organization reports that for every $1 invested, about $202 in local economic activity is generated.
GJEP focuses on attracting and supporting businesses that create jobs paying above the county’s average wage.
Key industries include:
- Health care and medical services
- Manufacturing and technology
- Aerospace and aviation
- Transportation and logistics
- Outdoor recreation
These sectors help diversify the local economy and reduce reliance on any single industry.
Key points
Economic development can feel abstract, but it directly affects daily life.
Higher-wage jobs can:
- Expand career opportunities
- Help young people stay or return
- Support local businesses
- Strengthen community stability
Mesa County’s unemployment rate is currently similar to the state average, reflecting a stable labor market.
While 2025 included some national uncertainty, GJEP reported continued commercial development and expects that momentum to continue.
The organization is shifting its approach to business recruitment by bringing decision-makers to Mesa County to experience local opportunities firsthand.
Population growth is expected to continue, increasing demand in areas like health care, education and public services.
Mesa County has worked to move away from boom-and-bust cycles tied to a single industry. Today’s focus is on building a more diverse, resilient economy that supports long-term opportunity for residents and future generations.
