Original Painting by Joyce Perdue Smith

Griffin is the major employment center for Spalding County and serves as a regional retail and service provider for several counties south of the Atlanta metropolitan area. The City's location has several advantages that have helped sustain its economy over the years including:

• Proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
• Midway between Interstates 75 and 85 Access to the amenities of Atlanta while retaining its small town feel
• Important regional center midway between Atlanta, Macon and Columbus.

For several generations, the county's economic engine was driven by the Manufacturing sector. The City's utilities and labor force attracted large industries such as Dundee Mills and Thomaston Mills. And while Manufacturing continues to be important, the Service sector now provides the most jobs and earning.

Employment growth during the 1990s was robust. While the population of Spalding County grew by just 7.3%, total employment grew by 22% and total inflation-adjusted earning grew by 39%. In 1990, statewide, Spalding County ranked 51st in total personal income per capita. By 2000, the county had risen to 36th and is projected to reach 21st by 2025. These figures and projections indicate that the local economy is steadily improving and that it plays and important economic role in the regions.

A number of important events and major trends are shaping Griffin's economy and will continue to do so over the next 20 years. The global free trade movement, inexpensive transportation costs, and cheap labor abroad will all continue to weaken the Manufacturing sector. The aforementioned shift from the Manufacturing to the Service sectors will continue to change the employment composition, though Manufacturing is expected to continue to play an important part in the local economy. Changes to the local transportation network will lead to changes in the types of residents and employers the City can attract. Key transportation improvements on the horizon include a potential east-west bypass around Griffin, the addition of commuter rail to Atlanta, consideration of relocating the local airport, and the development of multi-use greenways throughout the City. City redevelopment initiatives to assist blighted residential and commercial areas could reshape older neighborhoods and districts. Griffin must reinforce its place as a regional center for service and retail, especially through continued expansion at Griffin Regional Hospital. And finally, Spalding County's new found clean air non-attainment status will shape transportation and industrial growth.

For complete economic information, see the 2024 City of Griffin Comprehensive Plan.