Bend-Redmond MSA Ranked #4 in the Milken Institute's 2026 Best-Performing Cities Report

Bend-Redmond Ranked #4 in the Milken Institute's 2026 Best-Performing Cities Report

The Bend-Redmond metropolitan statistical area (MSA) has again been recognized for strong economic performance, ranking fourth for small cities for the second consecutive year in the Milken Institute’s 2026 Best-Performing Cities report. This marks a two-place improvement since 2024, and Bend-Redmond has remained in Tier 1 and among the nation’s top-performing small city MSAs for 10 consecutive years.

The Milken Institute’s Best Performing Cities report evaluates 411 metropolitan areas across 13 key economic indicators, including job and wage growth, high-tech GDP growth and community resilience. The Bend-Redmond MSA continues to excel in several categories, reinforcing its reputation as a leading center for economic growth and innovation.

Bend-Redmond’s strong labor market continues to underpin the region’s success. For the second consecutive year, the area ranked 14th in five-year job growth, while five-year wage growth again placed fifth among small cities. After last year’s report raised concerns about slowing momentum, employment growth rebounded sharply. The region improved to 22^nd in short-term job growth, up from 113^th the previous year. This rebound was reinforced by a rise to 34th in job growth from 2023-2024, supported by a 2.4 percent increase in employment from July 2024 to July 2025.

Despite these strengths, the area faces challenges, particularly in housing affordability. Income inequality persists, though Bend has improved from 133rd to 81st in the Gini index, which measures income disparities. Addressing these issues is essential to maintaining Bend-Redmond’s long-term economic strength and competitiveness.

Jon Stark, CEO of Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO), commented, “Bend-Redmond’s continued top-tier performance reflects the strength of our people, our entrepreneurs and a community that believes in smart, continued growth. This recognition shows that when we invest in innovation, workforce development and business-friendly policies, the results follow. At EDCO, we are energized to build on this momentum, so our region’s success remains broad-based and sustainable for the long term.”

Bend-Redmond’s continued high ranking in the Milken Institute’s Best-Performing Cities underscores its appeal to businesses and entrepreneurs seeking a dynamic environment, high quality of life and a strong labor market.

‍