West Palm Beach, Fla. (Oct.18, 2024) – In September 2024, the unemployment dropped slightly to 3.6 percent. This competitive rate, coupled with a solid labor force of 782,410 individuals, highlights the region’s thriving workforce. Despite the slight uptick, favorable employment conditions continue, as reported by CareerSource Palm Beach County and FloridaCommerce. (All numbers not seasonally adjusted).
- Job Growth: Nonagricultural employment hit 700,200 in September 2024, a notable increase of 13,700 jobs (+2.0 percent) over the year.
- Industry Performance: Several sectors outpaced statewide growth, including Construction (+6.6 percent), Government (+4.0 percent), Education and Health Services (+3.5 percent), Leisure and Hospitality (+2.9 percent), and Manufacturing (+0.5 percent).
- Top Rankings: The metro division tied for the second highest annual job growth in Manufacturing (+100 jobs) and secured the third highest annual job growth in Leisure and Hospitality (+2,600 jobs).
- Construction Boom: The region saw the third fastest annual job growth rate in Construction (+6.6 percent), showcasing a thriving construction sector.
Local residents benefit from job gains with increased opportunities in education, health services, construction, and leisure and hospitality. This growth leads to higher job security, career advancement, and professional development. A thriving job market boosts the local economy, improving public services, infrastructure, and community programs. Residents enjoy a higher standard of living and better access to healthcare, education, and recreational activities. A strong labor market attracts new businesses and investments, creating more job opportunities and contributing to the community.
“Palm Beach County’s labor market is showing remarkable resilience and growth,” said Julia Dattolo, President and CEO of CareerSource Palm Beach County. “The diverse job gains across key sectors not only provide more opportunities for our residents but also contribute to the overall economic vitality of our region.”
Job growth/loss by industry sector: Over the past year, Palm Beach County saw notable job gains in education and health services, government, and trade, transportation, and utilities.
|
Industry
|
Change
|
Total Jobs
|
|
Education/health services
|
+4,000 jobs
|
118,400
|
|
Construction
|
+2,900 jobs
|
47,100
|
|
Leisure and hospitality
|
+2,600 jobs
|
91,500
|
|
Government
|
+2,600 jobs
|
67,700
|
|
Trade/transportation/utilities
|
+1,700 jobs
|
126,800
|
|
Manufacturing
|
+100 jobs
|
22,100
|
Upcoming Job Fairs and Hiring Events
CareerSource Palm Beach County has scheduled the following job fairs and hiring events for October and November:
- Oct. 25 – Multi-Industry Job Fair, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Nov. 6 – Paychecks for Patriots Job Fair, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
More information about these events will be available on www.careersourcepbc.com.
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Note to editors: You are invited to interview a CareerSource spokesperson on local employment and economic trends. Please call 561.340.1060 ext. 2489 for scheduling before 12 p.m. today.
IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE STEVENS AMENDMENT:
CareerSource Palm Beach County, Inc. is the direct service provider for various workforce programs supported by the U.S. Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and other agencies as part of awards totaling $15,851,406 (revised annually). Unless otherwise stipulated, all statements, news releases, requests for proposals, bid solicitations and other applicable documents are fully funded from federal sources.