FloridaCommerce has reported that the Tampa metropolitan area experienced significant growth in private sector employment over the past year. The region gained 16,800 jobs, marking a 1.2% increase in November 2024 compared to the previous year. This achievement places Tampa as the second-highest among all metro areas for job gains during this period.
In manufacturing, Tampa led with an increase of 400 jobs over the year. However, the unemployment rate in the area rose to 3.8%, up from 3.1% in November 2023. Additionally, there was a decline of 1.4% in the labor force, equating to a reduction of 23,014 individuals.
Statewide, Florida added 60,100 private sector jobs in November 2024 despite recent hurricanes—Debby, Helene, and Milton—that affected various regions. Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly credited Governor DeSantis' leadership for facilitating rapid recovery efforts post-hurricanes: “Under Governor DeSantis’ decisive leadership, Florida’s quick bounce-back is evidence of Florida’s commitment to recovery.”
The leisure and hospitality sector showed notable growth with an addition of 30,500 jobs (+2.3%) during November alone. This increase compensated for job losses incurred in October.
Since August 2024, more than $88 million has been allocated through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support businesses impacted by hurricanes.
For those seeking employment opportunities or career advancement resources are available through platforms like Employ Florida and CareerSource Florida's network.