Clearwater, FL – December 2023 Jobs Report – Sunshine persists amid economic shifts

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Clearwater’s December 2023 jobs report painted a mixed picture, reflecting broader national trends. The unemployment rate dipped slightly to 3.1%, indicating a tight labor market. However, job growth slowed compared to earlier months.

Highlights:

  • Unemployment rate: 3.1%, down from 3.2% in November 2023.
  • Job growth: Added 847 jobs, compared to 1,742 in November 2023.
  • Leisure and hospitality: Added the most jobs (229), followed by professional and business services (124).
  • Construction: Declined by 29 jobs, the only industry to lose jobs in December.

What Industries and Occupations Grew:

  • Leisure and hospitality: Hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses continued to see hiring, likely boosted by the holiday season.
  • Professional and business services: This broad category includes a variety of occupations, such as healthcare, education, and technology. Growth may be due to increasing demand for these services.
  • Trade, transportation, and utilities: This sector added 56 jobs, potentially reflecting growth in e-commerce and logistics.

What Industries and Occupations Shrank:

  • Construction: The small decline in construction jobs could be due to seasonal factors or completion of major projects.

Compare to Same Month Last Year:

  • Unemployment rate: Down from 3.2% in December 2022.
  • Job growth: Added 847 jobs, compared to 1,120 in December 2022.

Compare to Previous Month:

  • Unemployment rate: Down from 3.2% in November 2023.
  • Job growth: Added 847 jobs, compared to 1,742 in November 2023.

Future Outlook:

The future outlook for Clearwater’s job market is uncertain. National economic forecasts suggest slower growth in 2024, which could impact hiring. However, the Tampa Bay region’s strong tourism industry and growing population could continue to create job opportunities.

10 Growing Occupations:

  1. Registered Nurses
  2. Home Health Aides and Personal Care Aides
  3. Customer Service Representatives
  4. Retail Salespersons
  5. Waiters and Waitresses
  6. Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses
  7. Truck Drivers
  8. Software Developers and Applications Developers
  9. Elementary and Middle School Teachers
  10. Chefs and Head Cooks

10 Companies Hiring Now:

  1. Publix Super Markets
  2. Morton Plant Hospital
  3. T-Mobile
  4. Walmart
  5. Amazon
  6. The Home Depot
  7. Lowe’s
  8. BayCare Health System
  9. Marriott International
  10. Hilton Worldwide Holdings

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