Today, NACo released the County Economic Tracker 2014: Progress through Adversity, a study assessing recovery patterns across the nation’s 3,069 county economies by analyzing annual changes in four indicators — economic output (GDP), employment, unemployment and home prices. It also explores 2012-2013 wage dynamics, adjusted for local cost of living and inflation.

As described in NACo’s press release:

“Economic realities on the ground highlight the importance of working closely with our state and federal partners to deliver essential county services to residents across the country,” said Matthew Chase, NACo’s executive director.  “Counties are doing their part, investing in economic development, transportation and many other services, but they cannot do it alone. Counties must continue to leverage networks of public, nonprofit and private partners to fulfill their mandated duties.”

Emilia Istrate, NACo’s director of research, added, “The County Economic Tracker reminds us that the U.S. economy can mask the realities of what is happening on the ground.  Economic growth is spreading, but most county economies have not recovered to levels seen before the recession.  This progress through adversity illustrates the success of county economic development efforts, but it also shows the need for collaboration in securing a strong economy.”

Find the analysis, accompanying interactive map and individualized economic performance profiles for each of the 3,069 county economies at www.naco.org/CountyEconomies. NACo is disseminating the research to state associations, media, the Administration, Capitol Hill, NACo affiliates and other networks in Washington, D.C.