U.S. Census data released March 26 shows Central Ohio continues to grow faster than Cincinnati, Cleveland and the rest of the state.
Without our area, Ohio would barely have seen any population growth at all.
The Columbus Dispatch summed it up like this: “The 10-county Columbus metropolitan statistical area (MSA) grew about 1% from July 2024 to July 2025. That's an additional 21,312 people – about the size of Whitehall – ranking the region 32nd among the nation's 387 MSAs. By comparison, Cleveland's MSA grew by just 0.1%, adding 2,539 people. And Cincinnati (0.6% growth) added 13,107.”
Why are we growing? Experts point to a diverse workforce, massive construction projects and sustained economic opportunity.
MurphyEpson is often brought on by partners to ensure we keep up. Our work focuses on three areas: communication, engagement and public affairs.
To manage growth successfully, we need intentional decisions, long-term investment and coordination across sectors.
One of the clearest examples of that response is our work with the LinkUS initiative in partnership with Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA). As more people move into the region, Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), a key to more thoughtful inward growth, becomes even more urgent. LinkUS is focused on building a more reliable, connected system that can keep up. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), sidewalks and trails all encompass the LinkUS initiative, passed by voters in November 2024. Fast forward two years, and MurphyEpson is helping roll it out.
We’re also proud to partner with the Ohio Department of Transportation to support research, planning and statewide initiatives. We support the state as it plans thoughtful transportation decisions on a larger scale.
At the same time, cities work with us to engage with the community and communicate important projects (and the public’s role in them). And construction partners like CK Construction and Kokosing ensure we’re building the right way.
Foundational infrastructure is expanding behind the scenes. Columbus Water & Power’s Lead-Safe Columbus program (which is replacing lead and galvanized pipes), Blueprint Columbus initiative (which is helping ease the risk of flooding) and Home Road Water Plant (a fourth water plant and associated transmission mains) aimed at serving a growing population) are critical. Also, our team collaborates with the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA) on outreach efforts that lead to cleaner air for us all to breathe.
Through all of this work, we want to ensure we’re growing into a healthy Central Ohio.
Housing is another piece. Our partners at Wallick focus on ensuring growth remains accessible to all. As demand increases, so does the need for affordable, attainable housing options that allow people at different income levels to live and work in our region.
Public-private partnerships are crucial during moments like this. That’s where The Beta District comes in, helping drive innovation in mobility and technology, supporting new industries, workforce development and long-term economic opportunity.
We’re privileged to be at the intersection of projects that serve as the foundation of successful growth. Think of it this way: Transit supports housing. Housing supports workforce growth. Workforce growth and plentiful clean water support economic development. And economic development powers long-term stability.
Moving forward, we face an opportunity and a challenge. The pace of population must be met by our pace of planning. We’ve supported Central Ohio’s growth since 1989. Now, we’re more than ready to support the next chapter!
