(Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. delivers his 2026 State of the County address at the Double Tree Hotel in Jamestown on April 21, 2026 highlighting measurable economic gains, strategic infrastructure investments, and a continued commitment to efficient, results-driven government for Chautauqua County residents. Image by Justin Gould / Media Information Officer)
MAYVILLE, NY — During his 2026 State of the County Address on Tuesday, Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. announced new economic data highlighting significant progress across the county, reinforcing that ongoing development strategies are delivering measurable results.
“What we’re doing is working,” said County Executive Wendel. “The latest data confirms that Chautauqua County is on a strong upward trajectory, and our commitment to smart growth, collaboration, and investment is paying off.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, in data released in February 2026, Chautauqua County ranked as the ninth fastest-growing county economy in New York State, with a gross domestic product (GDP) increase of 4.6 percent from the previous year. Over the past five years, the county’s GDP has grown by an impressive 29 percent.
Household prosperity is also on the rise. Median household income increased from $46,820 in 2019 to $58,351 in 2024, representing a 25 percent gain, according to American Community Survey 5-year estimates. In addition, the Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that Chautauqua County ranked eighth in New York State for year-over-year per capita income growth.
The county is also experiencing steady social progress. Poverty rates have declined from 19.4 percent in 2014 to 17.4 percent in 2024, demonstrating meaningful improvement in quality of life for residents.
“Our progress is not only reflected in economic output, but in the real, positive impact on our residents,” Wendel said. “While there is still work ahead, the trajectory is clear.”
Key labor indicators further support this positive trend. Unemployment remains stable at 4.7 percent as of December 2025, closely aligning with the New York State average of 4.6 percent.
County leaders attribute this success to a coordinated approach that includes investing in infrastructure, supporting workforce development, and fostering strong public-private partnerships.
In addition, the County’s continued focus on fiscal responsibility has played a key role in maintaining affordability for residents. Through fiscally conservative budgeting, improved government efficiencies, and a commitment to tax relief, Chautauqua County has strengthened its position as one of the most affordable places to live in New York State. Currently, the county ranks as the second most affordable county in the state for cost of living (based on data provided by The Council for Community and Economic Research).
“We are continuing to collaborate with partners across the county and invest in our strengths,” Wendel added. “By doing so, we are attracting new businesses, creating new jobs, expanding housing opportunities, and bringing new workers to Chautauqua County — while ensuring it remains an affordable place to live and raise a family.”
Wendel emphasized that ongoing initiatives will help sustain and accelerate this momentum. Efforts to construct new housing, attract new businesses, reactivate strategic properties, and develop shovel-ready sites are expected to further strengthen the county’s economic foundation.
“We are seeing our efforts pay off,” Wendel said. “The key metrics used to measure the health of our economy are moving in a positive direction, and we are committed to building on this success for the benefit of all our residents.”
To view Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr.’s 2026 State of the County presentation, visit chautauquacountyny.gov/soc/2026.
