By William Mears 

The Rock Ready Index is a strong barometer of the area’s economic wellbeing. Residential remains hot, sales tax revenue sets records every quarter, and the unemployment rate is trending down. New multiple-family developments are leasing up before they are ready for occupancy. And, there will be more multiple-family units coming online next year.

Key takeaways: 

  • Unemployment continues to decline
  • Rock County job postings 12% higher compared to last quarter

  • Residential housing market continues to outpace the national market

  • New multiple family units coming on the market are primarily preleased.

  • New record for County sales and use tax collections

  • Industrial vacancy rate remains very low

Storm clouds remain with “Now Hiring” signs in front of just about every business. Logistic log jams threaten retail as well as manufacturing. Available industrial space remains scarce, but a 60,000 square foot spec building is coming online this quarter along with a 178,710 square foot spec building by the end of the year. 

View full report here.