Polk County Manufacturing Sector Generates $4 Billion in Economic Output, Employs 20,000 Workers

Polk County’s manufacturing sector has grown into a $4 billion economic engine, employing more than 20,000 workers and ranking as the county’s third-largest employer. The sector has experienced 5.9 percent growth over the past year and 27.4 percent expansion over the past decade, outpacing Florida’s statewide manufacturing growth rate of 2 percent during recent measurement periods.

The county’s manufacturing base produces a diverse range of products, from sterile IV fluids to high-grade steel, reflecting a mix of traditional and advanced manufacturing operations. Major employers, including Nucor Steel Florida and Assure Infusions, have made significant capital investments in the region, while established companies like Publix continue expanding local operations.

Geographic Advantages Support Manufacturing Growth

Polk County’s location in Central Florida provides manufacturers access to more than 11.8 million consumers within a 100-mile radius. The county offers connectivity to major highways, rail lines, and port facilities, creating logistics advantages for companies distributing products regionally and nationally.

Available industrial land, competitive tax rates, and targeted economic incentives have attracted manufacturers evaluating Florida expansion opportunities. These factors combine with the state’s business climate to create conditions favorable for manufacturing investment and operations.

Workforce Development Programs Address Skilled Labor Needs

Polk County’s technical colleges and higher education institutions have partnered with manufacturing employers to develop training programs aligned with industry requirements. These collaborations help ensure a pipeline of workers trained in modern manufacturing skills, including computer-controlled machining, quality systems, and automated production technologies.

Workforce development has become increasingly important as manufacturers adopt advanced technologies requiring different skill sets than traditional production methods. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, 77 percent of manufacturers reported moderate to severe workforce shortages in 2025, underscoring the critical role of regional training partnerships in sustained growth.

Manufacturing jobs typically offer competitive wages compared to other sectors. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that average manufacturing wages in Florida reached $58,420 annually in 2024, approximately 8 percent above the state’s average wage across all industries. These wage levels contribute to household financial stability and support local consumer spending.

Manufacturing Investment Strengthens Local Tax Base and Infrastructure

Manufacturing growth generates property tax revenue, sales tax collections, and other public revenues that support infrastructure improvements, schools, and public services. As manufacturing operations expand, communities benefit from enhanced tax bases that can fund improvements without proportional increases in residential tax rates.

Polk County’s 27.4 percent manufacturing growth over the past decade has occurred alongside infrastructure investments in roads, utilities, and telecommunications systems. These improvements benefit both manufacturing operations and residential communities, creating reinforcing cycles of economic development.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta noted in its October 2025 regional economic outlook that manufacturing investment in interior Florida counties has increased as companies seek alternatives to congested coastal regions. Counties offering available industrial land and established infrastructure have attracted companies relocating from higher-cost areas or expanding existing operations.

Economic Diversification Reduces Regional Economic Volatility

Manufacturing sector growth helps diversify local economies that have historically depended on agriculture, tourism, or residential development. Economic diversification reduces vulnerability to sector-specific downturns and creates more stable long-term growth patterns.

For Polk County, manufacturing expansion complements existing strengths in agriculture, logistics, and distribution. This diversification creates a more resilient economic base capable of weathering sector-specific challenges. Communities with diverse economic structures typically experience lower unemployment volatility and more consistent tax revenue growth.

Strategic Considerations for Communities Supporting Manufacturing Growth

Local governments and economic development organizations play important roles in attracting and retaining manufacturing operations. Infrastructure planning, workforce development programs, permitting processes, and incentive structures all influence manufacturing investment decisions.

For manufacturers evaluating expansion opportunities, understanding total operating costs, workforce availability, logistics access, and regulatory environments helps inform site selection. Companies must assess capital investment requirements, tax implications, and long-term operational considerations when planning facility expansions or relocations.

Our advisors help manufacturers evaluate expansion opportunities, assess tax incentives, and develop financial strategies supporting profitable growth. We work with manufacturing companies to understand local operating environments and structure investments that strengthen financial performance.

Together, we help manufacturing leaders do Moore. Explore how our accounting, assurance, and advisory services support the financial strength of manufacturers at our Manufacturing Services page.

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