Wisconsin Economic Outlook 2026
GDP growth, unemployment, tariff impacts, and economic forecast for Wisconsin heading into the 2026 elections.
2.2%
GDP Growth Rate
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
Surplus
State Budget Outlook
Stable
Job Growth Forecast
2026 Economic Overview
Wisconsin is a quintessential manufacturing and agriculture swing state. The failed Foxconn project is a cautionary tale about promised manufacturing investment. Dairy tariffs directly impact farm-country voters.
Key Economic Indicators
| Indicator | Value / Status |
|---|---|
| GDP Growth Rate | 2.2% |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.3% |
| Top Economic Sector | Manufacturing, Agriculture, Healthcare |
| State Budget Outlook | Surplus |
| Job Growth Forecast | Stable |
| Tariff Impact | High — dairy exports, paper manufacturing, industrial machinery |
| Key Economic Risk | Dairy tariff retaliation; manufacturing competition; Foxconn project failure legacy |