Dear Mobile Chamber Members,

We’ve got some great economic news to share now that the delayed 2024 GDP data has finally been released following last fall’s government shutdown.

Mobile County had a strong year. Our local economy grew by $949 million in 2024, bringing our total Real-GDP to $24.3 billion. That’s a solid 4.06% growth rate, well above both the state and national averages.

Here’s what makes this particularly impressive: Mobile County accounted for 13% of Alabama’s entire economic growth last year. That put us in second place statewide, trailing only Madison County (Huntsville), which contributed 14.4% of the state’s growth despite growing at a slower 3.38% rate.

How did we stack up against other major Alabama counties?

We outpaced some significant players. Jefferson County (Birmingham), despite having the largest economy at $51.16 billion, grew at just 1.39%. Montgomery County came in at 2.68% growth, Tuscaloosa at 1.39%, and Baldwin County at 2.83%.

Our 4.06% growth rate was the highest among Alabama’s major economic centers.

For context, Alabama’s overall economy grew 2.95% in 2024, reaching $255.6 billion, while the national economy grew 2.79% to $23.36 trillion.

What does this mean? Mobile County’s economy is not just growing – it’s growing faster than our peers across the state and outperforming both Alabama and the nation as a whole. This momentum reflects the hard work of our business community and the continued strength of our diverse economic base.

Speaking of growth, we’re also investing in the infrastructure to support it.

The Mobile Airport Authority just announced it will receive $3 million in federal funding for tarmac improvements at Mobile International Airport (BFM). U.S. Sen. Katie Britt secured this funding, which was included in the recently signed Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill.

It’s projects like this that position Mobile for continued expansion. As Andy Wilson, executive director of the Mobile Airport Authority, noted, strong airfield infrastructure supports safe and efficient operations for airlines, tenants and our entire community.

With our economy growing at 4% and strategic infrastructure investments coming through, Mobile is building the foundation for sustained economic success. Our aviation infrastructure serves as a critical connector for business, tourism and the manufacturing sector that continues to grow along the Gulf Coast.

Until next week,

Originally published Friday, February 6, 2026.