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.
Innovation Keeps Rolling
Celebrating the new Board & Brush business opening on Main Street.
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.
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
- SoutheastHEALTH – Healthcare – 2,430
- Procter & Gamble – Manufacturing – 1,200
- Southeast Missouri State University – Higher Education – 1,107
- Isle 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.