Thursday, September 19, 2024
Greg Britton State Director for the Florida Small Business Development Center Network | Official Website

Florida maintains lower unemployment rate than national average for nearly four years

Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida's unemployment rate has been lower than the national rate for 45 consecutive months. In July 2024, Florida's statewide unemployment rate was 3.3%, which was one percentage point lower than the national rate of 4.3%. Additionally, Florida's private sector employment grew by 201,500 jobs (+2.3%) over the year since July 2023, outpacing the national rate of 1.5% over the same period.

"Florida proves the economy can fare better with better leadership," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "If Washington reversed course and followed Florida’s lead, families and small businesses across America would be better off."

"The federal government’s indecisive and fiscally irresponsible policies—including the decision of the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates high—continue to cause chaos," said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. "Florida is the number one ecosystem for job creation in the world, continuing to instill confidence in job creators and job seekers with smart fiscal policies and economic stability, and is attracting record numbers of visitors to our state."

In July 2024, the leisure and hospitality sector gained the most jobs among all major industries, adding 11,200 jobs (+0.9%) from the previous month, followed by construction with an addition of 6,300 jobs (+1.0%). Florida’s labor force grew by 35,000 (+0.3%) over the year since July 2023.

Job creators continue to demonstrate great confidence in Florida through their investments, creating high-skill, high-wage jobs. The state offers numerous workforce education and development opportunities for job seekers to gain necessary skills for a competitive job market.

Data from July indicates there are jobs available for every Floridian who wants to work, with more than 433,000 positions posted online. Floridians seeking employment can utilize resources provided by CareerSource Florida network for assistance in finding job opportunities and improving employability through resume writing workshops, interview skill training, career goal setting, and customized career training—all offered at no cost.

To view regional July 2024 job reports or access more detailed employment data visit www.floridajobs.org/labor-market-information/labor-market-information-press-releases/monthly-press-releases or explore further information on labor market trends via Florida Insight.

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