FloridaCommerce has released the latest employment data for the Jacksonville metro area for March 2025, revealing an increase of 9,600 private sector jobs compared to the previous year. The education and health services industry reported the most significant growth, adding 6,200 jobs. Despite the job increase, the region’s unemployment rate rose from 3.2% in March 2024 to 3.6% in March 2025.
At the state level, the Florida manufacturing industry observed continuous growth for the past five months, adding 1,900 jobs in March 2025. The statewide job count in the manufacturing sector reached 434,600, representing an over-the-year increase of 5,700. The overall Florida labor force grew by 62,000, bringing the total to nearly 11.2 million in March 2025.
Florida’s private employment growth rate outpaced the national rate, with a 1.3% increase over the year compared to the national growth of 1.2%. Notably, the state has added jobs in 56 of the last 59 months since May 2020. The trade, transportation, and utilities sector added 5,800 jobs, followed by the education and health services sector with 5,600 jobs.
A range of resources is available for Florida job seekers. Florida’s Labor Exchange Marketplace, Employ Florida, connects job seekers with training and employment opportunities. CareerSource Florida’s network offers career counseling and job placement support. Initiatives such as Apprentice Florida and Veterans Florida aim to provide specialized support, including for military veterans and their families.
Job seekers have access to almost 411,000 job postings online, and CareerSource Florida provides assistance in improving employability skills like resume writing and interview preparation. These services are offered without charge.
To view the March 2025 job reports by region and other related labor market data, individuals are directed to visit Florida Insight.
