Greater Washington Moves Up “Best Performing Cities” List

The Greater Washington region ranks 11th out of 200 in the 2004 Best Performing Cities analysis by the Milken Institute. The region had previously ranked 19th in the 2003 analysis.

The Washington region greatly outperformed its peers of very large metro regions in the country.

Atlanta was the next best-ranked very large metro placing 72nd, Philadelphia ranked 84th, Los Angeles ranked 140th, Boston 144th, Chicago 166th and New York 169th.

The Milken Institute Best Performing Cities index ranks U.S. metropolitan areas based upon their economic performance and their ability to create, as well as keep, the greatest number of jobs in the nation.

Additionally, the top cities listed have best benefited from a rebounding U.S. economy, a return to pre-Sept. 11th tourism levels, low housing costs and a growing elderly population that has fueled job growth in health care and other services.

The Milken Institute is a publicly supported independent economic think tank. More information about the Milken Institute Best Performing Cities, is available at bestcities.milkeninstitute.org.