Midwest US Industrial Labor - 2026

In this report the largest 21 markets in the Midwest were evaluated based on the current transportation and warehouse labor situations. This report also evaluates industrial demand, as measured by completions and net absorption, and analyzes its correlation with demand for skilled and affordable industrial labor.

After averaging a record-setting 3.3% annual growth from 2011 to 2023, growth in transportation and warehouse (T&W) employment has slowed, reflecting reduced development activity for new distribution and warehouse facilities.

There are many factors to consider when evaluating an industrial labor market. To learn more about an individual Midwest market, refer to the individual market pages starting on page 10.