Henry County added 2,291 new jobs and attracted $208.25 million in new investment in the most recent fiscal year, according to a report issued by the Development Authority and presented to the Board of Commissioners at its September 7 regular meeting.

The influx of companies bringing in new jobs is being credited in part for the county’s median income rising to $79,309 per year, which is the 14th highest out of 159 counties in Georgia, HCDA executive director Josh Fenn stated. He also pointed out several reasons companies are wanting to come here.

“We are getting younger, which is good … this is what businesses look for … not just in the industrial areas but in the retail areas,” Fenn said. “We are younger than metro Atlanta, way younger than the state of Georgia, and way younger than the national average.” 

He went on to compliment the county’s education system, while noting that there is some room for improvement at higher attainment levels.  

“Henry County’s graduation rate is higher than some of our neighboring counties,” he said. “Our school system and private schools are doing a great job. [But] one of our opportunities for growth is in education attainment post high school … that is associate’s degrees and technical degrees and above.”

Henry County’s diversity, favorable crime statistics in key areas, and the large community of veterans were cited as strong points in its favor economically. Fenn also pointed out the positive impact all of this has had on the tax digest.

“An industrial building valued at $50 million pays in taxes what it would take 350 houses valued at $250,000 to pay,” he said. “The good news is that industrial values have gone up (14.77 percent in FY 22). I know that was helpful as you all were going through some budget decisions, having more revenues available without having to increase the millage rate.” 

The county’s population is now just under 250,000 and projections indicate continued growth the next five years that exceeds the Atlanta metro area as a whole.