Auburn is outperforming the nation, ranking as the 10th best-performing small city in the United States. Auburn's growth in economic strength, hospitable endeavors, strong community ideals and industries across town make it a popular location unique to the residents and businesses that call the town home.
Recent innovation within business sectors has expanded job opportunities, created competitive wage growth and sustained economic development across the region. While many small cities struggle to retain small talent, Auburn has done the opposite, cultivating an environment where graduates choose to stay long after earning their degrees.
Anchored by the University itself, the city of Auburn benefits from a strong line of research and entrepreneurship that feeds directly into the local community. Recent economic development includes recently opened, innovative and family-friendly businesses, including Cookie Fix and Fizz N Fork, downtown. With spaces to host children of all ages and cater to visitors' needs, the city offers amenities that attract frequent newcomers.
“Being able to connect with all the locals and graduates makes Auburn feel like home," said Anna Grace Smith, junior studying marketing. "There are so many opportunities here, and the community helps you feel so seen."
Not only do students bond by contributing to Auburn’s school spirit and traditions unique to the campus but the University’s alumni network creates a lifetime connection highlighting the real values of the Auburn family. Rather than being dependent upon one specific aspect of city culture, Auburn offers diverse fields of work, including education, engineering and hospitality.
Downtown Auburn reflects the small city’s growth, as historic storefronts complement modern spaces and developments that attract new visitors. Restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques with Southern charm draw customers in and retain many visitors. Not only does Auburn provide opportunities for new visitors to experience this small city but the amenities and Southern hospitality unique to the town keeps Auburn visitors coming annually, if not more often.
“Auburn knows how to host visitors and out-of-state people very well. Usually, when they visit, they love it so much that their family plans on coming back the next year,” said Lilly Phillips, sophomore in public relations.
Beyond infrastructure and economic performance, Auburn’s ranking also speaks to local attractions. With beautiful Alabama weather year-round, local parks, walking trails and well-maintained outdoor spaces draw residents in from around the city, and these safe public attractions help families feel prioritized, explaining their commitment to residing in Auburn.
“One of Auburn’s most famed attractions is actually their ability to be so hospitable to guests, which goes a long way,” said Audrey Macon, freshman in biology.
Hospitality continues to distinguish Auburn from other growing cities. Whether employees and locals welcome prospective students near campus, plan conferences that support various industries or open a new business near downtown, the welcoming environment ensures a sense of family that many visitors enjoy.
Auburn’s recognition as the 10th best-performing small city in the United States reflects more than just economic success. Rather, the people of Auburn have specialized in welcoming diverse groups of people and appreciating their community, contributing to the local human experience. With investment in tradition and innovation, Auburn has not only positioned itself well as a small city but also placed itself on a path to create a stronger network and community for generations.
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