March 4, 2025
Rail Transportation and the U.S. Economy: Fueling Growth, Trade, and Opportunity
“In 2023, railroads contributed $233.4 billion in total economic output, supporting business activity and nearly 750,000 jobs across the economy.
Rail is not just a means of moving goods and people — it is a force multiplier for the U.S. economy. It sustains jobs, reduces business costs, fuels supply chains, facilities trade, and delivers critical public benefits like lower emissions and reduced highway congestion. As we look toward the future, a strong rail industry is essential to keeping the U.S. competitive, resilient, and vibrant — a pillar in America’s economic success.
A new report from AAR’s Policy & Economics team quantifies rail transportation’s economic impact, examining its contributions to jobs, trade, private investment, and public benefits.”
Read more from the Association of American Railroads HERE or download the report HERE.