FloridaCommerce has reported that the Fort Lauderdale metro area gained the third-highest number of private sector jobs among all metro areas over the year in September 2024. The region also led in job gains in trade, transportation, and utilities with 4,700 jobs; government with 4,600 jobs; and other services with 3,700 jobs. The area's private sector employment reached 820,500, marking an increase of 16,500 jobs or a growth rate of 2.1% from the previous year.
The unemployment rate in Fort Lauderdale rose to 3.4% in September 2024 from 3.1% a year earlier. The labor force saw a slight increase of 0.1%, adding approximately 685 individuals over the same period.
Statewide, Florida's unemployment rate has been lower than the national average for nearly four years, maintaining at 3.3%. In September alone, Florida added 175,600 private sector jobs compared to the previous year. The state's job growth rate stood at 2%, surpassing the national average of 1.4%.
The education and health services sector experienced significant growth within Florida's major industries by adding 5,100 jobs or a monthly increase of 0.3%. The construction industry followed closely with an addition of 3,600 jobs or a rise of 0.5%.
Resources remain available for job seekers through platforms like Employ Florida and CareerSource Florida's network offering career counseling and job placement support.
In response to Hurricane Milton's impact on businesses across Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis directed immediate action from FloridaCommerce to assist affected small businesses. Secretary J. Alex Kelly stated: “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.” Over $5 million has been approved for affected businesses through emergency loan programs.
Efforts continue as strike teams canvass hurricane-impacted counties providing necessary aid and resources to business owners facing challenges post-hurricane.