Cuyahoga County lost jobs and businesses, while the U.S.A. gained both, during the first five years of the 21st century, according to an analysis conducted by The Plain Dealer of recent U.S. Census Bureau data.

During the five-year period, Cuyahoga County lost 80,342 jobs, more than 10%, while the nation added 2.2 million jobs, a gain of 2%. During the period, Cuyahoga County lost 1,216 business companies (3%), while the nation gained nearly 430,000 businesses, a gain of 6%.

Job losses ranged from 15-26% in the sectors of administration and support, manufacturing, construction, and information services. However, job gains of 7-18% were reported in transportation, warehousing, professional, scientific, technical, health care, social assistance, and educational service sectors. During the period of 2000-2005, MHS added more than 30 healthcare and supportive service staff members to its payroll.

Bruce Katz, Director of Metropolitan Policy at the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C., attributed the job and business losses to a lack of focus on policies. He explained that a "drift of state policy and lack of consistent, sustained investment in matters that make a difference have impeded Ohio's economy."

References

Bentayou, F. (2007, June 2). Ohio bled jobs in '00-'05. Cleveland, OH: The Plain Dealer, pp. C1 & C3. Retrieve the article from Cleveland.com. (Articles are available without charge for a limited time.)

Explore the interactive map showing data for Ohio counties. The map was created by Dave Davis and Rich Exner of The Plain Dealer.