You don't want to move to a city on the down and out, no matter how cheap the real estate prices or how long you've known the Burlington, Ontario lawyer who recommended the place to you. You won't have that worry in Worcester, Massachusetts. Whether you're looking for a great climate in which to open your own business or searching for a job that will help you pay off your mortgage, Worcester's economic endeavors are sure to give you what you need. To give you an idea of the economic landscape, we've compiled this overview.

Manufacturing

Once a hub for the auto industry, Worcester's factories have moved on to more modern concerns. Abbot Laboratories, which specializes in biotechnology, runs a manufacturing arm in the city for pharmaceutical products, and Morgan Construction, makers of metals products, is headquartered here. Those who work with industrial valves will be pleased to know there are factories for abrasives and beverages as well, so no matter what your area of expertise there's bound to be a factory that could use you.

Technology

Companies like Abbot Laboratories aren't all about manufacturing, however. They also run large research and development facilities where engineers versed in everything from enzymes to electronic circuit design work together to create new technology products. Many of them, including Advanced Cell Technology, which is a stem cell researcher, are based out of the nearby biotech park. Meanwhile, the David Clark Company is busy developing protective suits for high altitude flying and space travel.

Education

Among the largest employers in the city are the local school system and the University of Massachusetts Medical School. The medical school, which is one of the best in the nation, employs a variety of people, from doctors to administrators to boiler water treatment chemical experts. There are also several other post-secondary schools that provide employment in this sector, including the Jesuit College of the Holy Cross, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester State College, and Clark University.

Finance

Insurance is the focus of Worcester's financial sector. There are several big name companies with headquarters offices in the city, like Hanover Insurance and specialty provider Paul Revere Life Insurance. These companies do double duty by employing financial professionals such as actuaries and accountants and also by providing insurance to other professionals, so they can be protected while they install Aurora water pumps or teach kids in an elementary school.