FloridaCommerce has released employment data for November 2024, indicating an increase in private sector jobs in the Naples and Ft. Myers metro areas. The Naples area saw a rise of 2,100 jobs, marking a 1.3% increase over the year, with leisure and hospitality leading the growth by adding 600 positions. Similarly, Ft. Myers experienced a gain of 2,300 jobs or a 0.9% increase, with leisure and hospitality contributing an additional 1,200 jobs.
Unemployment rates in both areas have increased compared to November 2023. Naples recorded a rate of 3.5%, up by 0.6 percentage points from last year, while Ft. Myers reached 3.7%, reflecting a rise of 0.5 percentage points.
Statewide, Florida added 60,100 private sector jobs in November, surpassing pre-hurricane employment levels and highlighting resilience following Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton. "Under Governor DeSantis’ decisive leadership, Florida’s quick bounce-back is evidence of Florida’s commitment to recovery," stated J. Alex Kelly, Florida Secretary of Commerce.
The leisure and hospitality sector showed significant monthly growth statewide with an addition of 30,500 jobs in November alone—12,900 more than were lost in October.
Since August 2024, more than $88 million has been approved through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support businesses affected by recent hurricanes.
Resources such as Employ Florida and CareerSource Florida are available to job seekers for training and job placement assistance across the state.
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