Published: March 18th, 2025

Introduction:

To uncover where economic confidence is reaching new heights, we surveyed over 4,034 business leaders about their outlook for the year ahead.

We're talking about the cities where entrepreneurs and executives are investing confidently in tech and the future, while they're also managing the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.

AI a Major Focus

Let's take a look at what we heard regarding AI, before we get into the cities most bullish on growth.

Considering the effects of AI, tariffs and other challenges, business owners in these cities felt the most gloomy about the year ahead:

Are you leveraging AI across your business?

• Yes (35%)
• No (65%)
  
  

Which roles are most likely to face fallout from AI?

“Small businesses are caught in a real bind,” says Corey Donovan, President of Alta Technologies. “They’re itching to grow, but finding and holding onto talent is increasingly challenging. With AI set to impact careers, businesses who pivot fast will come out on top in this new landscape.”

Here's what the data showed regarding growth:

Here are the top 175 Cities ranked by growth outlook in 2025:

Key Findings:

The Confident Champions

North Las Vegas emerges as America's most optimistic business hub, where affordable real estate and strategic location are fueling unprecedented growth expectations.

New York City maintains its powerhouse status despite high costs, while Savannah's port-driven economy rounds out the top three with stellar growth projections.

Energy & Growth Markets

• • ⏵ Midland, TX continues to lead in energy sector innovation

  • ⏵ Cape Coral, FL shows strong growth in real estate and healthcare

  • ⏵ Rockford, IL demonstrates strength in manufacturing and aerospace

  • ⏵ Pasadena, TX excels in tech and science sectors
    
    

Emerging Economic Powers

The top 10 reveals some surprising contenders:

• • ⏵ Buffalo demonstrates the rust belt's remarkable revival

  • ⏵ Orlando proves it's more than just a tourism destination

  • ⏵ Detroit showcases its transformation into a tech hub

  • ⏵ North Las Vegas challenges its famous neighbor's spotlight
    
    

State-by-State Outlook

Analyzing the complete rankings unveils interesting trends:

• • ⏵ Delaware leads hiring confidence with 73% planning workforce expansion

  • ⏵ Iowa and Arkansas show surprising strength in the heartland

  • ⏵ Rhode Island and New Mexico display more cautious outlooks
    
    

Industry Growth Patterns

The survey highlights key sectors driving optimism:

• • ⏵ Tech/IT positions lead hiring demands at 22%

  • ⏵ Customer support shows equal strength at 22%

  • ⏵ Sales and marketing remain robust at 18%

  • ⏵ R&D and executive roles see more measured growth
    
    

Investment Trends

Business confidence extends beyond hiring:

• • ⏵ 22% plan major IT infrastructure investments

  • ⏵ 46% anticipate moderate tech spending

• • ⏵ Only 18% report no planned investments

  • ⏵ Digital transformation remains a key priority
    
    

Bottom Line

Our data reveals a transformative moment in American business and IT, where cities both large and small are emerging as powerful economic engines.

It's clear to see that 2025 marks a pivot from cautious optimization to bold growth strategies.

----

For Interview Requests, Comment, or Further Information on this January 2025 study, please contact:

Corey Donovan, President
Alta Technologies, Inc.
cdonovan@altatechnologies.com