Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted a significant milestone in Florida’s ongoing economic success: Florida’s statewide unemployment rate has been lower than the national average for 40 straight months.
The national unemployment rate grew to 3.9 percent in February 2024, but Florida’s rate did not rise and outperformed the national rate by 0.8 percentage points.
In February 2024, Florida’s private sector job growth rate increased by 2.3 percent (+194,200 jobs) over the previous year, but the national rate only increased by 1.6 percent.
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“Florida continues to outperform the nation,” said Governor Ron DeSantis Friday. “We have proven that bold, conservative leadership across the board produces booming economic results—more jobs, lower taxes, less regulation, and fiscal security.”
Florida’s economic data continues to show economic strength and confidence among its workforce, with the state’s labor force growing by 2.0 percent (+217,000) over the year in February 2024, outpacing the similar national rate of 0.7 percent.
The education and health services sector created the most jobs of any major industry, generating 57,500 jobs throughout the year. The trade, transportation, and utilities industries ranked second, gaining 48,300 jobs. Leisure and hospitality (tourism) created 35,000 jobs.
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With over 443,000 jobs listed online in February, there are plenty of options for every Floridian looking for work. Floridians looking for work and new possibilities can make use of the CareerSource Florida network.
Floridians can obtain information on how to register with Employ Florida and search for available local employment openings. Career searchers can also increase their employability by honing their CV writing and interviewing skills, setting career goals, and taking personalized career training. The State of Florida provides these services free of charge to job searchers.
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