Based on our 2025 readership and LinkedIn data, here are the top five articles that defined our year. From deep dives into local infrastructure and workforce needs to relatable looks at regional inflation, these top five articles highlight the impact of our work and the people—both students and professionals—who make it possible.
5. Economic Impacts of the Duluth International Airport (Published 3/24/2025) This study highlights Duluth International Airport’s role as a major economic engine, contributing approximately $1.4 billion annually to Minnesota’s economy. The BBER’s analysis found that the airport supports over 4,000 jobs and generates $284.8 million in labor income through its management, tenants, and visitor spending. Notably, the study found an employment multiplier of 1.31, meaning every job at the airport supports nearly one-third of a job in other industries. Tom Werner, executive director of the Duluth Airport Authority, noted that "beyond just transportation, the airport fuels business expansion and strengthens our economic resilience."
4. Updated Cheeseburger Price Index (Published 7/15/2025) This update to the BBER’s local inflation index reveals that the average cost of a cheeseburger and fries in Duluth has climbed to $13.52—a 38% increase since 2018. While the index saw a slight dip in 2024 due to lower ingredient costs, prices reached a new high in 2025 as local restaurants adjusted to rising costs. The study found that Duluth’s cheeseburger prices have outpaced both the national Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Big Mac Index over the eight-year period. As noted in the article, "despite the brief relief from price increases in 2024, the cost of a cheeseburger and fries in Duluth continues to climb."
3. What Are the Workforce Needs for the Clean Energy Transition? (Published 1/28/2025) This BBER analysis explores the specific roles and skills required for green jobs as Duluth shifts toward renewable energy. A key takeaway is that many green jobs actually align with traditional trades; for example, HVAC installers, electricians, and carpenters are projected to see local employment growth of up to 15% over the next decade. The study specifically highlighted career pathways for residents in Duluth’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, noting that transitioning from a construction laborer to a plumber could potentially double an individual’s hourly wage.
2. Spotlight Series: Jess McCullough (Published 4/14/2025) Part of our ongoing Spotlight Series, this feature introduces Jess McCullough, former public policy advisor at Minnesota Power. The BBER collaborated with Jess to conduct an economic impact analysis of the M.L. Hibbard Renewable Energy Center. That report was published in November 2024. In the interview, Jess shared his passion for problem-solving during a period of rapid change for the American electrical grid. When asked for his best piece of career advice, Jess—who holds a PhD in archaeology—offered an insightful perspective: "Finding your fit isn’t so much about what your degree is in as it is the skills you develop in the process and how it makes you feel to apply them."
1. Ava Klennert joins the Bureau’s research team (Published 7/8/2025) The BBER’s most-read article of 2025 introduced our talented undergraduate research assistant, Ava Klennert. Ava joined the BBER team in May 2025 to gain hands-on experience in her field. Growing up in Hill City, Minnesota, Ava developed a keen interest in natural resource economics and expressed a desire to research the economic impact of the mining industry on the Iron Range. Update: Ava is still hard at work at the BBER and plans to graduate this spring!
As 2026 ramps up, we are excited to continue providing the data and analysis that help our community navigate a changing economic landscape. Whether it’s tracking local inflation or studying the workforce of the future, our goal remains the same: to provide clear, actionable insights for our region. Thank you for following our work this past year—we can’t wait to share more projects with you.