Cape Girardeau is more than just a river city with a rich history—it’s a hub for businesses, innovation, the arts, and development. Industries like technology, education, manufacturing, and healthcare are growing and changing to grasp the opportunities of the twenty-first century head on, and there’s a place for anyone who wants to join in the progress. Although the city is proud of its past, people in Cape are even more excited about the days to come. There’s a growing feeling around town that things are happening—residents have seen improvements to places they’ve known and loved for years, seen businesses and developments that bring new friends to the area, and are enjoying increased opportunities to live the life they’ve always dreamed about.
Powering the Regional Economy
Industries in Cape Girardeau serve a much larger region than just the City. People from the Western and Southern parts of Missouri as well as four neighboring states choose Cape as their regional hub for retail, healthcare, professional services, higher education and employment. Every day, Cape hosts more than 100,000 people, visitors and residents alike.
Revitalized Downtown
Downtown Cape is flourishing. It’s become a destination for up-and-coming businesses, the arts, and the tech industry. With the growth of the Marquette Tech District, startups and other innovative business models are growing and attracting talented minds to the area. Southeast Missouri State University also draws international talent for faculty and staff in a variety of disciplines, in addition to the students who attend from all around the globe and make Cape their home.
Our local not for profit, Old Town Cape, spends 100% of their time connecting 4,500+ residents and 300 businesses in 130 blocks. They coordinate volunteer opportunities, downtown events, and highlight the beautiful history that our town holds.
Who’s New in Town?
This amazing new facility is right off of I55 and conveniently located by the Sportplex. Tru By Hilton Cape takes a modern spin on hotels and creates a beautiful setting for all kinds of travelers.
The team at Security Locksmith has been serving the Sikeston region for 50 years. They recently opened their newest location in Cape Girardeau and are ready to service your home, business, and automotive needs.
At Luxury Clean, they believe that every garment deserves to be treated with premium care and respect, while also remaining respectful of the environment. Our commitment isn’t just to your wardrobe, but to your community and the land it thrives on.
Cape Girardeau’s new luxury Salon + Spa. We believe beauty is more than skin deep. Our goal is to make our clients feel confident, empowered, and beautiful both inside and out.
We offer a safe, nurturing and challenging environment to help our athletes develop their physical strength, flexibility, balance, agility, coordination and grace – all while having fun!
We are a specialty shop selling kayaks, kayak accessories, fishing gear, and light camping gear
We believe securing a mortgage is about more than financing a home — it’s about building a future and a community. Our values-driven approach ensures every client feels informed, empowered, and valued throughout the process.
Unemployment Rate & Commutes Among Best in Nation
Cape’s unemployment rate hovers around 3%, typically lower than both the U.S. and Missouri state average. Commute times in Cape Girardeau are significantly less than major metropolitan areas, with the average commute only taking 15 minutes.
Top 5 Employers in the Cape Area
- Saint Francis Healthcare System – Healthcare – 2,817
- MercySoutheast – Healthcare – 2,430
- Procter & Gamble – Manufacturing – 1,200
- Southeast Missouri State University – Higher Education – 1,107
- Century Casino Cape Girardeau – Gaming – 450
Top 5 Industries in Cape
- Retail
- Educational Services
- Manufacturing
- Health Care
- Wholesale Trade
Top Manufacturing Employers
- Procter & Gamble
- Mondi
- Delta Companies
- Havco Wood Products
- Buzzi Unicem USA
- BioKyowa
- American Rail Car
- Wahlco, D.W. Tool
- Rubbermaid
- RapcoHorizon
Career Searching
If you’re looking to relocate to Cape Girardeau and searching for a new job opportunity, we suggest you start by reaching out to the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce at info@capechamber.com or visit our online job board.
You can also look online at job sites like Indeed as several local employers will list opportunities there.
Economic Impact
SEMO REDI is a newly redeveloped organization readying a proactive and collaborative regional effort to create a more vibrant economic future for Southeast Missouri. We seek to improve the lives of residents by increasing economic opportunities while providing a place for businesses to thrive.