Overview
The January 2024 jobs report for Akron, OH paints a picture of a stagnant labor market, failing to keep pace with the national trend of job growth. While the national unemployment rate dipped to 3.9% in January, Akron remained at 5.2%, a slight increase from December’s 5.1%. This indicates continued challenges for Akron’s workforce, although some sectors are showing signs of improvement.
Highlights
- The unemployment rate remained above the national average at 5.2%.
- Job growth across all sectors was negligible compared to the national trend.
- Healthcare and social assistance continued to be the leading source of employment, though without significant growth.
- Manufacturing shed a small number of jobs, a concerning sign for a traditionally industrial city like Akron.
What Industries and Occupations Grew
- The healthcare and social assistance sector remained the largest employer in Akron, but employment figures stagnated in January.
- Professional, scientific, and technical services showed modest growth, adding a small number of jobs.
What Industries and Occupations Shrank
- Manufacturing shed jobs in January, a continuation of a concerning trend for the city’s industrial base.
- Leisure and hospitality saw a slight decline in employment compared to December.
Compare to Same Month Last Year
- Akron’s unemployment rate in January 2024 was down slightly from 5.4% in January 2023.
- Job growth across most sectors remained sluggish when compared to January 2023 figures.
Compare to Previous Month
- The unemployment rate inched up slightly from 5.1% in December 2023.
- There was minimal change in employment figures across most sectors compared to December 2023.
Future Outlook
The future outlook for Akron’s job market is uncertain. While the national economy is projected to continue growing in 2024, it remains to be seen if Akron can capitalize on this trend. The city’s traditional manufacturing base faces ongoing challenges, and growth in other sectors like healthcare may not be sufficient to offset job losses elsewhere.
10 Growing Occupations (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics [bls.org])
- Registered Nurses
- Wind Turbine Service Technicians
- Solar Photovoltaic Installers
- Home Health Aides
- Personal Care Aides
- Software Developers, Applications
- Cybersecurity Analysts
- Physician Assistants
- Medical Assistants
- Marketing Specialists
10 Companies Hiring Now
- Amazon
- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
- FirstEnergy Corp
- Summa Health System
- Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises, Inc.
- The University of Akron
- Akron Public Schools
- MGM Resorts International
- Burger King
- Walmart
Cited Sources