DeSantis Announces Big Job Growth in Florida

Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) announced a growth rate in private sector jobs for January. Adding 37,900 jobs over the year (0.4%), Florida doubled the national private sector job growth average for the same period.

The state4's labor force growth nearly tripled the national average over-the-year in January as it grew by 243,000 jobs (2.2%) compared to the country’s 0.8%.

16,000 net new workforce participants were recorded for January as well.

“Florida has started off the year strong by growing jobs at twice the national average,” said Governor DeSantis. “Florida continuously outperforms the national economy with fiscal stewardship, growth-friendly policies, limited government spending, and one of the lowest tax burdens per capita in the nation.”

Furthermore, Florida’s statewide unemployment rate has defended itself from the national rate from reaching the national rate for over three years (40 months). In January, the Sunshine State’s unemployment rate was 3.1% compared to the 3.7% national average.

The Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly commented on the “strong economic growth trends” of the DeSantis administration.

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership with velocity and purpose, Florida’s economy starts off the year with strong economic growth trends,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “Florida’s commitment to jobseekers and job creators keep us on our front foot ahead of the inflationary pressures created by D.C.”

The Executive Office of the Governor also reported growth in the hospitality industry despite passing E-Verify, a bill that seeks to ensure that only legal citizens are employed.

“In January, the education and health services sector gained the most jobs among all major industries, adding 9,700 jobs from the previous month, followed by a uniquely elevated month for leisure and hospitality (tourism-impacted professions), adding 9,400 jobs; and professional and business services, adding 7,500 jobs. Additionally, revised economic data from 2023 demonstrated that Florida’s economy surpassed original estimates,” the Office stated.

The press release continued, “Florida’s hospitality industry continues to rise following the implementation of Florida’s historic E-Verify law, ensuring that companies are employing legal citizens. This proves the naysayers wrong. Florida can have universal E-Verify and still maintain a robust hospitality industry.”

DeSantis is in his final term as the Governor as he is term-limited after winning for a second time in 2022.