What does this measure?

The percentage of workers, age 16 or older, that entered or left the county for work during the year.

Why is this important?

The flow of commuters into and out of a region is an indicator of its economic vitality and ability to draw in employers and employees from surrounding areas. It also may reflect transportation options available to workers in a county and the match between the skills of the residents and the local jobs available.

How is our county doing?

In 2019, around 114,300 workers (44%) entered Essex County for work, and 174,100 residents (54%) left for work.

How do we compare to similar counties?

Westchester, NY had a higher share of people entering the county for work (58%), as did Lake, IL (56%) and Middlesex, NY (53%). The counties had similar rates of people leaving for work.

Notes about the data

This analysis is conducted for workers' primary jobs. Out-of-state residents are included. The percentage of workers leaving the county is calculated out of all residents who work. The percentage of workers entering the county is calculated out of all workers employed within the county. Massachusetts data is not available prior to 2011.