July, 2004

Murdock – The Kiplinger Letter reports that new college grads are abandoning the big cities for small cities and towns, and Port Charlotte is specifically mentioned as one of the premier areas for relocation – and the ONLY Florida community listed!

After years of competing with bright city lights and high salaries, smaller communities are finding that they have a lot to offer to young adults. College grads are choosing to start their careers in a location that has a lower cost of living, less crime, shorter commutes and good pay.

The benefits to Charlotte County are many. By luring the best and the brightest, Charlotte County is able to establish a high achieving, stable workforce that will continue to bring economic prosperity to the community. A younger and better educated worker will also bring the need for services that support young families and the arts, thereby offering opportunities for new businesses and expansion of existing ones. Betty Williams, Economic Development Manager, stated, “The availability of an educated workforce is among the first questions asked by companies who are considering a relocation, and in addition, is paramount to our existing businesses. And, one of the fastest growing age groups for Charlotte County is the 18 to 24, which is tomorrow’s workforce, making us a prime location for attracting high skill-high wage companies.”

In addition to Port Charlotte The Kiplinger Letter lists other small towns that are benefiting from the new focus as Abilene, Texas; Hot Springs, Arkansas; Greeley, Colorado; Provo, Utah; Augusta, Georgia; Mesa, Arizona; Everett, Washington and Lynn, Massachusetts.