In 2012, the Mid-America region was responsible for 17.7% of the US GDP, and every state in the region has experienced positive GDP over the last three years. Located in the middle of the United States, the region is the perfect place for national and international companies to operate due to the ease of logistics and transportation in and out of the region. The region boasts a comparably affordable cost of living and operation as well as a skilled labor force. Advantages of the Mid-America Region, includes strong industry clusters in automotive and food industries.