FloridaCommerce has reported a significant increase in private sector employment in the West Palm Beach metro area. The region saw an addition of 11,100 jobs, marking a 1.8% growth over the past year as of September 2024. The education and health services sector led this growth by adding 4,000 jobs.
The unemployment rate in West Palm Beach rose to 3.6% in September 2024, up from 3.3% the previous year. The area's labor force experienced a slight decline of 0.2%, equivalent to a reduction of 1,662 individuals.
Statewide, Florida's unemployment rate has consistently remained below the national average for nearly four years, holding steady at 3.3%. Over the past year, Florida added a total of 175,600 private sector jobs, outpacing the national job growth rate with its own increase of 2%.
In September alone, the state saw substantial job gains in various sectors: education and health services increased by 5,100 jobs and construction added another 3,600 positions. However, there was a minor decrease in Florida's labor force by approximately 12,000 people since September last year.
Resources are available for those seeking employment or career advancement through platforms like Employ Florida and CareerSource Florida’s network of local centers. These provide job matching services and career development support at no cost.
Following Hurricane Milton's impact on businesses across Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis directed immediate action to support affected small businesses. "Immediately after Hurricane Milton made landfall," said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly, "Governor DeSantis directed FloridaCommerce small business strike teams into the field to connect with impacted businesses and provide direct support."
Efforts included deploying agency employees to conduct outreach in hurricane-affected areas and approving financial aid through programs like the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program.
For ongoing recovery efforts related to Hurricane Milton and other recent storms like Helene and Debby, several resources have been activated including short-term loans for businesses experiencing economic disruptions.