Jeremy Jackson, PhD
Distinguished Professor of Economics
Lloyd V. Hackley Chair for the Study of Capitalism and Free Enterprise
Broadwell College of Business and Economics
Fayetteville State University
Key Points
- The economic outlook for the national economy is positive with slight cause for concern as net investment and corporate profits fall
- The outlook for North Carolina is positive, with low unemployment and a growing state product expected
- The outlook for the Fayetteville Metropolitan Area is mixed
- Wages in Fayetteville have seen a recent decline, but this may reverse in 2026
- Housing prices in Fayetteville are expected to continue their current downward trend
Fayetteville MSA Economic Outlook
The outlook for the Fayetteville Metropolitan Area is mixed
- Wages in the metro area are down with a potential increase in 2026
- Unemployment rate should remain at current levels.
- The recent decline in the labor force should level off in 2026.
- Housing prices look to continue the recent slight downward trend.
North Carolina Economic Outlook
The North Carolina economy continues to perform well
- Growth in gross state product and total wages and salaries is expected to continue
- The labor market will continue to see low unemployment with a possible slight expansion in the labor force
National (USA) Economic Outlook
The economic outlook for the U.S. economy remains positive
- Economic growth continues to be supported by strong consumer expenditures
- There are signs that economic growth may stagnate as the unemployment rate increases and net investment falls
- Corporate profits may fall in the short term