The January 2024 jobs report for Charleston paints a cautiously optimistic picture. The metro area added 1,500 jobs, exceeding expectations, but growth was slower than in January 2023. The unemployment rate remained low at 2.8%, indicating a tight labor market.
Highlights
- Job Growth: Charleston added 1,500 jobs in January, representing a 0.6% increase.
- Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate remained steady at 2.8%.
- Wage Growth: Average hourly wages in South Carolina continued to rise, reaching $28.54 in January, a 4.5% year-over-year increase.
What Industries and Occupations Grew
- Leisure and Hospitality: This sector led job gains, adding 800 positions, likely due to the start of the tourism season.
- Professional and Business Services: Growth occurred in healthcare and technology.
- Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: Modest gains were seen in retail and transportation.
What Industries and Occupations Shrunk
- Construction: The industry experienced a slight decline, likely due to seasonal patterns.
- Manufacturing: Job losses were observed in some manufacturing sectors, reflecting national trends.
Compare to Same Month Last Year
- Job growth in January 2024 (1,500) was lower than January 2023 (2,800).
- The unemployment rate was slightly higher in January 2023 (3.0%).
- Wage growth remained steady year-over-year.
Compare to Previous Month
- Job growth in January (1,500) was lower than December 2023.
Future Outlook
The Charleston job market is expected to remain stable in the coming months. The tourism industry is likely to pick up further in the spring and summer, leading to seasonal hiring. Growth in healthcare, technology, and professional services is also expected to continue.
10 Growing Occupations in Charleston
While data specific to Charleston is not readily available, here are 10 occupations projected to grow nationally by the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- 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 in Charleston
Indeed.com lists numerous companies hiring in Charleston across various industries. Here are 10 examples:
- Boeing
- Medical University of South Carolina
- Charleston County School District
- Roper St. Francis Healthcare
- Volvo Cars
- Benefitfocus
- Blackbaud
- Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA)
- Nucor Steel Charleston
- The Charleston Police Department