The December 2023 jobs report for Chico, CA, indicates continued economic expansion, with the unemployment rate holding steady at 4.9%. However, the pace of job growth slowed slightly compared to previous months.
Overview:
- The unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.9%, matching November’s figure.
- The Chico Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) added 200 jobs in December, bringing the total number of employed residents to 89,900.
- Year-over-year job growth sits at 3.1%, slightly above the national average of 2.9%.
Highlights:
- The Leisure and Hospitality industry saw the most significant job gains, adding 100 positions.
- Professional and Business Services followed closely with 50 new jobs.
- Trade, Transportation, and Utilities experienced modest growth, adding 30 jobs.
Industry and Occupation Growth:
- Leisure and Hospitality (+1.2%): Growth likely driven by the holiday season and increased tourism activity.
- Professional and Business Services (+0.7%): Expansion in areas like administrative and technical support roles.
- Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (+0.4%): Modest gains in transportation and warehousing sectors.
Industry and Occupation Shrinkage:
- Construction (-0.2%): Minor decline, potentially due to seasonal fluctuations.
- Information (-0.1%): Small decrease, concentrated in telecommunications and broadcasting.
Comparison to Last Year:
- December 2023 saw higher job growth compared to December 2022 (200 vs. 150).
- The unemployment rate is lower than December 2022 (4.9% vs. 5.2%).
Comparison to Previous Month:
- Job growth slowed compared to November 2023 (200 vs. 300).
- The unemployment rate remained unchanged.
Future Outlook:
- The future economic outlook for Chico is cautiously optimistic.
- Continued growth is expected in sectors like Leisure and Hospitality, Professional and Business Services, and Healthcare.
- Potential challenges include rising interest rates and inflation.
10 Growing Occupations:
- Personal Care Aides
- Home Health Aides
- Registered Nurses
- Software Developers and Applications Developers
- Retail Salespersons
- Customer Service Representatives
- Truck Drivers
- Nursing Assistants
- Elementary School Teachers
- Chefs and Head Cooks
10 Companies Hiring Now:
- Enloe Medical Center
- Chico Unified School District
- Walmart
- Amazon
- Target
- Lowe’s
- Home Depot
- CPK (California Pizza Kitchen)
- Starbucks
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
Resources:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics
- City of Chico
- Indeed