Auburn is located in Lee County and is the largest city in eastern Alabama. Auburn is the fastest growing metropolitan area in the state. The city is home to Auburn University and is regarded as a college town. In addition, the city's cost of living index is close to the national average. The average salary in Auburn in 2009 was $34,000. According to Auburn employment statistics, 27% of employees have a bachelor's degree and 29% have a graduate degree.
For workers with children, Auburn's school system has repeatedly been placed among the top public school systems in Alabama and the country. Parenting Magazine ranked Auburn city school districts in the top 100 school districts in the nation.
Auburn University and university-associated services are major factors for the economy. The university employs about one-quarter of the city's workforce. Also, a large number of residents have federal and state government jobs that are generally connected with Auburn University. Roughly half of the Auburn workforce is employed in service sector positions. Some of the most common jobs in the city are management, professional and related professions. Sales and office jobs are also prevalent.
Auburn University is known for its business, agriculture, engineering and veterinary medicine programs. The school typically has over 20,000 students. The university is regarded as a research institution. The university emphasizes the areas of molecular biosciences, engineering, aqua culture, forest sustainability and transportation. The university's facilities include the Center for Micorfibrous Materials Manufacturing, the Space Power Institute, the Forest Products Development Center and the National Center for Asphalt Technology.
The city's Economic Development Department recruited numerous small to medium size technology companies to Auburn. About 30% of the jobs in Auburn are in the manufacturing sector. Mid-sized high-tech manufacturing and research companies are major factors for the city's industrial base. The city includes companies that manufacture automotive wheels, small engines, plastic injection technology, tools, vehicle armor, fuel cells and other items. Auburn also has several research centers including the Ludwig von Misies Institute.
Some major employers in Auburn are:
- Auburn University
- Briggs & Stratton
- Auburn City Schools
- Master Brand Cabinet Company
- Federal Government
- City of Auburn and the Water Works Board
- Falk Corporation
- Donaldson Company
- EPOS Corporation
- Hoerbiger Hydraulics
- Touchstone Precision
- Stahlschmidt & Maiworm
- Weidmann Plastics
- Capitol Vial
The leading industries in Auburn are:
- Education
- Health and social services
- Manufacturing
- Technology
- Entertainment and recreation
- Food services
- Retail trade
Some of the major business related organizations in Auburn include:
The Central Alabama Business Journal is an excellent publication to help individuals stay current on business activities in the Auburn area.