FloridaCommerce has reported that the Pensacola metro area added 1,500 private sector jobs over the year in April 2025. The education and health services industry led this growth, contributing 1,000 new positions.
The labor force in Pensacola increased by 677 individuals, marking a 0.3% rise from the previous year. However, the unemployment rate climbed to 3.7%, up from 3.0% in April 2024.
Statewide, Florida saw an increase of 21,800 private sector jobs from the previous month. The state’s economy now stands at $1.7 trillion, maintaining its status as a leading economic power in the nation. “This month, the U.S. News & World Report has ranked Florida as the #1 economy in the nation for the second year in a row and #1 in economic growth,” noted FloridaCommerce.
Since 2019, Florida has witnessed the formation of 3.6 million new businesses and its labor force has grown beyond 11.2 million people. Additionally, Florida remains a top destination for tourism with a record-setting 33.1 million visitors during Q4.
Over recent years, job growth has been consistent across Florida with employment increasing in most months since May 2020. The state experienced a total private employment rise of 125,700 jobs over the past year as of April 2025.
Florida’s education and health services sector saw significant job additions statewide with an increase of 8,000 jobs last month followed by professional and business services adding another 7,400 positions.
For job seekers in Florida, various resources are available through platforms like Employ Florida and CareerSource Florida’s network which provide career counseling and job placement support among other services.
“Data in the month of April continues to indicate there are jobs available for every Floridian who wants to work,” according to FloridaCommerce. Approximately 414,000 jobs were posted online offering numerous opportunities for those seeking employment or career advancement within the state.
