Georgia's Commercial Construction Industry Generates $80.9 Billion Economic Impact, Supports 549,000 Jobs

A comprehensive economic impact report commissioned by Associated Builders and Contractors of Georgia demonstrates the commercial construction industry's commanding role in powering Georgia's economy, generating $80.9 billion in total economic output. The report, produced by Economic Research Services, Inc. and based on 2022 data, reveals the sector's extensive reach beyond construction sites, directly and indirectly supporting 549,347 full-time equivalent jobs while generating $49.2 billion in earnings for Georgia workers.

The industry's economic impact extends through multiple channels, with $17.1 billion in gross payroll generating $37.4 billion in output when multiplier effects are considered. Non-payroll spending reached $21.8 billion, supporting local suppliers and generating an additional $43.5 billion in output. State tax revenues benefited significantly, with the industry contributing $2.7 billion including $1.47 billion from income taxes and $1.22 billion from sales and use taxes. The full report detailing these findings is available here.

Bill Anderson, president and CEO of ABC of Georgia, emphasized that commercial construction represents more than just building structures—it's building Georgia's economy. The state's national ranking as the number one state for construction in 2024 underscores the industry's importance. Anderson noted the organization's focus on policies supporting infrastructure development and workforce expansion to maintain this momentum. Additional resources including an infographic about the report can be found here.

The industry's impact reaches far beyond construction itself, with manufacturing, services, trade, and transportation sectors emerging as the largest beneficiaries. High-profile projects exemplifying this economic influence include Google's new data center in Douglas County, described as larger than the Mall of Georgia, Savannah Port's $4.5 billion expansion, and The Battery Atlanta's $1.1 billion mixed-use development. Infrastructure projects like the Atlanta Beltline, Stitch and PATH 400 continue to create economic opportunities throughout the region.

Despite the industry's current strength, Anderson identified potential challenges including tariffs and immigration issues affecting construction costs and workforce availability. Construction segments showing slowdown include multifamily projects and privately funded developments, while data center projects and government initiatives in higher education, healthcare, and college sports facilities continue moving forward. The organization provides additional visual resources through construction industry photos available here and a slide presentation about the report accessible here.

With Georgia's pro-business climate, Sun Belt population growth, and ongoing infrastructure investments, the report underscores commercial construction's pivotal role in shaping the state's economic trajectory. Anderson characterized the sector as a foundational pillar of growth for communities across Georgia, emphasizing that supporting and sustaining the industry remains key to ensuring long-term economic vitality. The comprehensive nature of this economic impact assessment provides valuable insights for policymakers and business leaders navigating the state's development landscape.