The Hidden Cost of Heat: Impact on Local Economies

Heat exposure has increased over the last two decades, significantly reducing workforce efficiency and leading to substantial financial losses for companies and communities alike. By comparing current conditions with what productivity would look like at cooler temperatures, this research reveals the hidden extent of heat’s impact on workability and the economy.

See the related Nicholas Institute report for more detailed methodological information.

This research was supported in part by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Program Office/National Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) under Award Number 2025-03-07519. We gratefully acknowledge the financial support provided by NOAA and NIHHIS, which made this work possible.