The Kenan Institute builds robust tools and conducts rigorous analysis on vital economic issues. Led by our chief economist, the research team creates forecasts predicting economic growth, employment and affordability to support data-driven analysis through reports, newsletters and webinars.
North Carolina has emerged as one of the strongest state economies, but declines in immigrant labor threaten to affect major industries. We identify which sectors in NC’s largest regional economies are most vulnerable and identify strategies to support employers and maintain economic output.
In the past few years, buying a home has become much more expensive for the typical North Carolina household. We look at a few of the reasons why costs are rising so sharply for new buyers.
Many of 2025’s economic challenges are expected to persist in 2026, and some Extended Metropolitan Areas will be more resilient to headwinds than others. Find out which EMA economies the American Growth Project expects will expand the most.
The American Growth Project examines the indicators driving the wellbeing of all Continental U.S. economies. Understanding the unique combination that makes each of them succeed is vital to unlocking their full potential for workers, businesses, communities and policymakers.
This map visualizes GDP growth rates for 150 Extended Metropolitan Areas (EMAs), with options to view a forecast of the one-year GDP growth rate for 2026 and to see how GDP has changed over a one-, five- or 10-year period.
The North Carolina Economic Forecasting Initiative provides county-level nowcast and forecast economic data to support economic development across North Carolina. The Kenan Institute employs advanced data modeling, translational research to community engagement efforts to make forecasts relevant and actionable.
The Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise at the University of North Carolina uses proprietary statistical techniques to analyze data for microeconomies representing 88% of U.S. economic activity, while Fifth Third Bank provides in-depth local knowledge that comes from 165 years of serving communities. Together, they generate insights supporting sustained business growth and healthy communities that extend beyond traditional banking solutions.
A Kenan Institute newsletter helping you better understand (and enjoy!) the ins and outs of the U.S. economy.
Work is increasingly transactional — and the data show it! “The Happy Economist” continues to explore #RenegotiatingWork, the changing nature of mutual commitment between employers and employees.
