FloridaCommerce has released data indicating a growth in employment figures for the Pensacola metro area. As of February 2025, the area reported an increase of 1,000 jobs within the leisure and hospitality sector, contributing to a rise of 1,800 jobs in the private sector over the year, equating to a 1.1% growth rate. The region's workforce expanded by 1,969, representing a 0.8% increase from the previous year. However, the unemployment rate rose to 4.0%, a 0.6 percentage point increase from February 2024's figure of 3.4%.
Statewide, Florida's manufacturing industry grew by 1,400 jobs last month, marking four consecutive months of sector growth, reaching a total of 432,000 jobs. This is the highest since 2002. Florida has seen a 32% increase in manufacturing establishments since early 2019, with consistent job growth in 55 of the last 58 months since May 2020.
Overall, Florida's private sector employment increased by 7,200 jobs within the month and by 105,700 throughout the year, translating to a 1.2% yearly growth. The state's employment growth rate continues to surpass the national average, with Florida maintaining an unemployment rate below the national average for 52 straight months since November 2020.
Construction led industry growth in February by adding 5,500 jobs, boosted by expansion in residential construction trades such as electrical, painting, roofing, and plumbing sectors.
To support job seekers, FloridaCommerce offers resources such as the Employ Florida marketplace, CareerSource Florida's career centers, the Apprentice Florida program, and initiatives for veterans and military families. Nearly 455,000 job listings were available online as of February, with the CareerSource Florida network available to assist Floridians with employment opportunities and career development services at no cost.
For further employment data and regional reports, including regions such as Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, and Miami, and for insights into the state’s labor market, the Florida Insight platform provides detailed analyses and accompanying video explanations.