DevLee

Forbes.com named Auburn Opelika as the sixth fastest-growing small metro area in the nation.

Projected total GMP growth, 2007-2012: 24.01%

The A-O MSA is home to Auburn University, Alabama's largest university with more than 23,000 students. Additionally, Southern Union State Community College in Opelika is home to more than 4,000 students.

Largest employers include Auburn University (5,100), East Alabama Medical Center (2,000), Uniroyal-Goodrich Tire (1,410), and Wal-Mart Distribution Center (655).

Expansion Management magazine ranked the A-O MSA at one of "America's 50 Hottest Cities for Business Expansions and Relocations" in their January 2004 issue.

• Charter Communications
• Alabama Power
• Opelika Light & Power
• Alabama Gas Company
• AT&T / BellSouth
• Auburn Water Board