The Downey, CA job market saw continued growth in January 2024, defying national trends of slowing hiring. While the data reveals a positive outlook, deeper analysis suggests some industries are outperforming others.
- Job growth: The Downey Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) added 1,243 jobs in January, representing a 0.4% increase from December 2023.
- Unemployment rate: The unemployment rate held steady at 4.2%, slightly below the national average of 4.8%.
- Wage growth: Average wages in Downey rose 2.5% year-over-year, reaching $72,800 annually.
Highlights:
- The healthcare and social assistance sector led job growth, adding 430 positions, followed by professional and business services (280 jobs) and leisure and hospitality (150 jobs).
- The manufacturing sector saw a slight decline of 80 jobs, reflecting national trends.
- Construction and mining remained stable, adding no new jobs.
Industries and Occupations on the Rise:
- Healthcare and social assistance: Registered nurses, home health aides, and social workers are in high demand.
- Professional and business services: Marketing specialists, accountants, and software developers are seeing strong hiring activity.
- Leisure and hospitality: Cooks, waiters, and bartenders are experiencing increased job opportunities as restaurants and hotels recover from pandemic impacts.
Industries and Occupations Facing Challenges:
- Manufacturing: While Downey’s manufacturing industry remains strong, some specialized positions are facing reductions due to automation and outsourcing.
- Retail trade: The ongoing shift to online shopping continues to impact brick-and-mortar stores, leading to job losses in retail sales and cashiering roles.
Comparison to Previous Periods:
- Compared to January 2023: Downey’s job market has added 3,420 positions, representing a 1.2% increase.
- Compared to December 2023: Job growth slowed slightly from 0.5% in December.
Future Outlook:
Downey’s job market is expected to continue growing in 2024, driven by the healthcare, professional services, and logistics sectors. However, national economic headwinds and potential recessionary concerns could dampen hiring activity later in the year.
10 Growing Occupations in Downey (January 2024):
- Registered Nurse
- Home Health Aide
- Software Developer
- Marketing Specialist
- Accountant
- Customer Service Representative
- Cook
- Waiter/Waitress
- Truck Driver
- Janitor
10 Companies Hiring Now in Downey (as of February 23, 2024):
- Boeing
- Kaiser Permanente
- SpaceX
- Downey Unified School District
- Amazon
- FedEx
- UPS
- Walmart
- Target
- Home Depot
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