FloridaCommerce has reported significant job growth in the Naples metro area for September 2024, particularly in the leisure and hospitality sector. The region experienced an 8.1% increase, adding 2,200 jobs over the year. In contrast, Fort Myers saw a private sector employment growth of 1.2%, translating to an addition of 3,000 jobs.
The labor force dynamics varied between these areas; Naples experienced a labor force increase of 0.6%, while Fort Myers faced a decrease of the same percentage. Both regions had an unemployment rate of 3.7% in September 2024, marking a slight rise from the previous year.
Statewide, Florida's unemployment rate remained below the national average for nearly four years at 3.3%. The state added 175,600 private sector jobs over the past year, with notable gains in education and health services as well as construction sectors.
In response to Hurricane Milton's impact on local businesses, FloridaCommerce deployed teams across affected counties to provide support and connect with business owners directly. Secretary J. Alex Kelly emphasized the state's commitment to small business recovery: “Immediately after Hurricane Milton made landfall, Governor DeSantis directed FloridaCommerce small business strike teams into the field to connect with impacted businesses and provide direct support.”
Efforts include more than $5 million approved through emergency bridge loans for businesses affected by recent hurricanes like Milton and Helene. Additional resources such as Disaster Unemployment Assistance are available for those whose employment was disrupted due to these natural disasters.
Floridians seeking employment can access various state-supported programs designed to aid job seekers and veterans transitioning back into civilian roles.