Richmond-Berea Ranks #2 Nationally for Micropolitan Economic Growth

Richmond-Berea earned recognition as one of the nation's top micropolitan areas for economic development projects in Site Selection magazine's 2025 Governor's Cup rankings, announced by Governor Andy Beshear on March 4.

The designation placed Richmond-Berea among 13 Kentucky communities in the top micropolitan rankings by number of projects — the second most nationally. Site Selection, based in Atlanta and read by 42,000 corporate site selection executives, has awarded the Governor's Cup annually since 1988.

Kentucky ranked fifth nationally and second in the South-Central region for economic development projects per capita, marking its sixth consecutive year in the top five.

Richmond City Manager Rob Minerich attributed the ranking to the city's business-friendly environment and 700 new business licenses issued in 2025. He noted the city's economic development team assists new and existing businesses with site selection and approvals.

"As the second fastest growing city in Kentucky, we want people to live, learn, work, and play right here in Richmond," Minerich said.

The city is investing in a new 280-acre regional sports complex as part of its commitment to quality of life, Minerich said.

Other Kentucky communities recognized in the micropolitan rankings include Franklin, Glasgow, Campbellsville, Frankfort, Corbin, Danville, Henderson, Madisonville, Mayfield, Mount Sterling and Somerset.