FloridaCommerce has reported a notable increase in private sector employment within the Fort Lauderdale metro area. Over the year leading up to November 2024, the region saw an addition of 10,200 jobs, marking a 1.2% rise. This growth positioned Fort Lauderdale at the forefront among metro areas for job gains in sectors such as government and other services.
The unemployment rate in Fort Lauderdale stood at 3.4% in November 2024, reflecting a slight increase from the previous year's rate of 3.0%. The labor force experienced a decrease of 1.1%, equating to a reduction of 11,492 individuals over the same period.
Statewide, Florida's job market demonstrated resilience following Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton. The state added 60,100 private sector jobs in November alone, surpassing pre-hurricane employment levels. For nearly four years now—49 consecutive months—Florida's unemployment rate has remained below the national average.
By November 2024, Florida's private sector employment had increased by 25,100 jobs compared to September before Hurricanes Helene and Milton struck. Over recent months, Florida has averaged an increase of approximately 8,733 private sector jobs monthly—a pace exceeding that observed prior to Hurricane Milton.
"Under Governor DeSantis’ decisive leadership," stated J. Alex Kelly, Florida Secretary of Commerce, "Florida’s quick bounce-back is evidence of Florida’s commitment to recovery." Kelly highlighted efforts such as reopening infrastructure and providing resources post-storms as pivotal in maintaining business operations and workforce stability.
The leisure and hospitality industry showed significant recovery with an increase of 30,500 jobs (+2.3%) in November alone. This sector regained more positions than it lost during October.
Since August 2024, more than $88 million has been allocated through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support over 2,230 businesses affected by recent hurricanes.
For those seeking employment opportunities or career advancement within Florida, several resources are available including Employ Florida for job matching and CareerSource Florida for career counseling and training services.
Floridians have access to more than 399,000 job postings online as per data from November. Services provided by CareerSource aim to enhance employability through resume assistance and interview preparation without any cost involved.
To explore detailed regional employment reports for November or gain further insights into economic data across Florida regions like Jacksonville or Miami among others, interested parties can visit platforms like Florida Insight or view supplementary video materials offered by FloridaCommerce.