U.S. Plastics Industry Helps Power $1.1 Trillion in Economic Output, Making Products that Support Nearly 5 Million American Jobs

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- America's plastics industry is one of the nation's most powerful economic engines, generating more than $1.1 trillion in total economic output. In addition, the industry's products support nearly 5 million U.S. jobs in 2024, according to a new analysis (PDF download) released today by the American Chemistry Council (ACC).

In 2024, the U.S. plastics manufacturing industry:

• Operated more than 11,600 facilities nationwide.
• Employed nearly 670,000 workers directly, generating a payroll of $48.6 billion.
• Produced nearly $380 billion of plastic resins and products.
• Invested $17.5 billion in new facilities and equipment.

"Plastics are essential to modern life, powering our economy and enabling innovation in everything from healthcare and clean energy to transportation and safe food and water," said Ross Eisenberg, president of America's Plastic Makers. "Plastics manufacturing means good jobs, strong wages, and sustained investment in America's future."

The industry's reach extends far beyond plastics facilities. Key U.S. industries that rely heavily on plastics—including automotive, construction, healthcare, and packaging—employed 4.8 million people and paid nearly $400 billion in wages in 2024.

Plastics are also a major contributor to U.S. trade, exporting nearly $64 billion in goods last year. With strong domestic production capacity, the United States enjoys a trade surplus in plastic resins, reinforcing its role as a global leader in materials manufacturing.

Beyond the national picture, plastics manufacturing drives jobs and growth in communities across the country, with particular impact in Louisiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas. Explore the state-by-state data here and additional state-specific insights below.

Download the report and fact sheet.

State Economic Data & Additional Quotes

Louisiana - Direct Employment: 6,460 | Average Annual Salary: $108,310 | Facilities: 90

"Louisiana is proud to lead the nation in plastics manufacturing, with some of the highest-paying jobs in America," said Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry. "These careers support Louisiana families and strengthen our economy, and we will ensure our state remains a hub for innovation and opportunity."

Ohio - Direct Employment: 49,080 | Average Annual Salary: $66,320 | Facilities: 810

"Ohio is proud to rank number one in the U.S. for plastics product manufacturing employment and production value," said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine.  "The industry supports tens of thousands of high-quality jobs and advances industries from healthcare to transportation.  In addition, plastics manufacturing is a major factor in Ohio's position as a national leader in innovation and manufacturing."

Pennsylvania - Direct Employment: 38,060 | Average Annual Salary: $69,810 | Facilities: 580

"The plastics manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of Pennsylvania's economy. By supporting thousands of skilled jobs and fueling innovation across critical industries like healthcare and advanced manufacturing, this sector not only strengthens communities but also solidifies the Commonwealth's competitive position on a global and national scale," said Steven Kratz, president of the Pennsylvania Chemical Industry Council.

Michigan - Direct Employment: 41,020 | Average Annual Salary: $73,780 | Facilities: 600

Texas - Direct Employment: 54,090 | Average Annual Salary: $85,680 | Facilities: 840

American Chemistry Council's Plastics Division
The American Chemistry Council's Plastics Division represents America's Plastic Makers^SM and the hundreds of thousands of scientists, engineers and technicians who develop plastics essential to modern life. From healthcare and clean energy to transportation and safe food and water, plastics drive innovation and strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting key industries and creating well-paying jobs. Companies are investing billions annually in U.S. production and recycling, advancing manufacturing and efficiency across economic sectors. We envision a future where all plastic products are reused or recycled, conserving resources and creating a cleaner, safer and more resilient world.

American Chemistry Council
The American Chemistry Council's mission is to advocate for the people, policy, and products of chemistry that make the United States the global leader in innovation and manufacturing. To achieve this, we: Champion science-based policy solutions across all levels of government; Drive continuous performance improvement to protect employees and communities through Responsible Care®; Foster the development of sustainability practices throughout ACC member companies; and Communicate authentically with communities about challenges and solutions for a safer, healthier and more sustainable way of life. Our vision is a world made better by chemistry, where people live happier, healthier, and more prosperous lives, safely and sustainably—for generations to come.

SOURCE American Chemistry Council