The Prešov Region is located in the northeast of the Slovak Republic. With its area of 8,972.8 km 2, it occupies 18.3% of the country. It is the second largest region in Slovakia, the first was the Banská Bystrica region. The long northern border is also the state border with the Republic of Poland. It borders Ukraine to the east, the Košice region to the south, the Banská Bystrica region to the southwest and the Žilina region to the west.
Due to the lack of job opportunities, the inhabitants of the Prešov Region often go to work in other regions or abroad. In 2019, the economically active population represented 48.7% and the economic activity rate reached 59.3%. The long-term employment rate has risen slightly to 63.8% in 2019. The unemployment rate fell sharply to 10.1% in 2019, but was still the highest compared to other regions. The average nominal monthly earnings reached EUR 1,024 and were the lowest in Slovakia.
In 2018, the industrial sector accounted for the largest share of regional gross value added, almost 23%. Wholesale and retail trade, transport, accommodation and food service activities accounted for 18.4% and public administration, compulsory social security, health and social work activities 15.5%.
The industry in the region is diverse without a significant focus on some industries. The production of metals, wood, food, electrical and machinery, chemicals, textiles and clothing is important. Industry is concentrated mainly in district cities.