FloridaCommerce has reported a notable increase in private sector employment in the Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area, with an addition of 6,000 jobs over the year by January 2025. The education and health services sector led this growth, contributing 3,600 new positions.
The labor force in Fort Lauderdale also expanded by 12,784 people over the same period, marking a 1.2% increase. However, the area’s unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.4%, up from 3.1% in January 2024.
Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted that Florida’s labor force surpassed 11.1 million in January 2025, reflecting ongoing economic resilience. “Job growth continued across most major industries,” he stated, noting manufacturing’s rise to 430,800 jobs.
Revised figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal that Florida’s labor force was underestimated by about 162,000 workers. This adjustment shows consistent growth or stability in the workforce for ten out of the past twelve months.
Statewide job creation reached 113,600 positions over the year ending January 2025, with Florida’s private sector growing at a rate of 1.3%, slightly above the national average of 1.2%. For over four years since November 2020, Florida’s unemployment rate has remained below the national level.
In terms of industry-specific gains from December to January, education and health services added another 7,200 jobs (+0.5%), while leisure and hospitality increased by 6,100 jobs (+0.5%).
Florida offers various resources for job seekers through platforms like Employ Florida and CareerSource Florida’s network of career centers which provide career counseling and job placement support without charge.
Additionally, several programs assist military veterans and their families with employment transitions and professional licensing needs when relocating to Florida.
Currently, more than 393,000 jobs are listed online as available throughout the state. Job seekers are encouraged to use these resources to improve their employability through skills training and other support services provided at no cost.
