The Bend job market kicked off 2024 with signs of continued growth, defying some national trends of slowing hiring. While specific data for Bend is limited, regional and industry reports offer valuable insights. Let’s delve into the key takeaways:
Overview:
- Bend’s unemployment rate remained low at 3.4% in January, well below the national average of 3.9%. [Source: Oregon Employment Department]
- Job postings in Bend increased by 5% compared to December 2023, indicating sustained employer demand. [Source: Indeed]
- However, the pace of growth slowed compared to the previous year, suggesting potential moderation in the near future.
Highlights:
- Healthcare, professional & business services, and leisure & hospitality saw the most significant job gains.
- Construction and manufacturing experienced slower growth compared to previous months.
- Remote work opportunities continued to rise, attracting talent and contributing to Bend’s economic vibrancy.
Growing Industries and Occupations:
- Healthcare: Registered nurses, physical therapists, and home health aides are in high demand.
- Professional & Business Services: Software developers, accountants, and marketing specialists are seeing strong growth.
- Leisure & Hospitality: Chefs, servers, and bartenders are needed as tourism remains robust.
- Remote Work: Bend’s tech scene and outdoor lifestyle attract professionals seeking flexibility and a unique environment.
Shrinking Industries and Occupations:
- Retail: Retail sales jobs showed slight decline, potentially reflecting national trends of online shopping growth.
- Manufacturing: While still important, manufacturing jobs saw slower growth compared to previous quarters.
Comparison to Same Month Last Year:
- Bend’s job market grew faster than the national average in January 2023, but the gap has narrowed in recent months.
- Specific industry comparisons are unavailable due to limited local data.
Comparison to Previous Month:
- Job postings in Bend increased by 5% compared to December 2023, indicating continued momentum.
- However, the growth rate slowed compared to December-January 2023, suggesting potential moderation.
Future Outlook:
- Bend’s economic fundamentals remain strong, with a growing population, diverse industries, and a focus on innovation.
- The pace of job growth might moderate in the coming months, aligning with national trends.
- The continued rise of remote work opportunities is expected to benefit Bend’s job market.
10 Growing Occupations:
- Registered Nurse
- Software Developer
- Physical Therapist
- Accountant
- Marketing Specialist
- Chef
- Server
- Bartender
- Customer Service Representative
- Sales Representative
10 Companies Hiring Now:
- St. Charles Health System
- Deschutes Brewery
- Nike
- Vestas
- BendBroadband
- Les Schwab Tires
- Pilot Software
- Central Oregon Community College
- Sunriver Resort
- The Bulletin
Resources: