According to an article in Bloomberg, quoted by Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Michael Varney, Tucson ranks third for the best year-over-year job growth among cities with populations of 500,000 or greater.

After reading the report, garnered from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Varney noticed a regional trend. Over all, cities in the south and west dominate the list of fastest-growing areas, while cities in oil country, the rust belt and upstate New York have the slowest job growth.

Varney also noted that the cities growing the fastest are generally mid-sized. The most well-known large cities are not within the top 10 for growth.

In addition, Varney said jobs that pay well help boost the average household income in the Tucson area. The regional economy is driven by consumers, so consumer spending is key to the region's economy. Sales taxes gained from people spending more are used to pave roads, take care of parks and provide public safety.

An environment friendly to new and existing businesses will help the area thrive; the Tucson Metro Chamber works toward this goal on a daily basis.