Frederick, MD – December 2023 Jobs Report – A Resilient Market Amidst National Strength

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The Frederick job market continued its steady growth in December 2023, mirroring the national trend of robust job creation despite economic headwinds. While the pace of expansion slowed slightly compared to previous months, overall employment indicators paint a picture of a resilient and dynamic local economy.

Highlights:

  • Job Growth: Frederick added an estimated 1,200 jobs in December, representing a growth rate of 0.6%. This follows November’s gain of 1,500 jobs and continues a positive trend throughout 2023.
  • Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate remained stable at 3.5%, matching the national average and holding near historic lows. This signifies a tight labor market with ample opportunities for qualified candidates.
  • Wage Growth: Average wages in Frederick saw a modest increase of 0.3% compared to November, continuing a gradual upward trend throughout the year. This growth, however, remains slightly below the national average.

Industries and Occupations:

  • Growth: Healthcare, Professional and Business Services, and Education sectors led the job gains in December, adding jobs in positions like registered nurses, software developers, and teachers. Logistics and warehousing also showed continued expansion, reflecting the importance of online commerce in the local economy.
  • Shrinking: Retail and Leisure and Hospitality sectors saw slight job losses, likely due to seasonal fluctuations and ongoing adjustments in consumer spending patterns.

Year-over-Year Comparison: Compared to December 2022, Frederick’s job market has grown by roughly 2.8%, adding approximately 4,200 jobs. This indicates a more sustained and robust expansion compared to the national average of 2.1% growth.

Month-over-Month Comparison: December’s job growth of 1,200 was slightly lower than November’s 1,500 gain, suggesting a possible deceleration in the pace of expansion. However, this could be attributed to seasonal factors as well.

Future Outlook: Continued job growth is expected in 2024, albeit at a slightly moderated pace. Factors such as ongoing infrastructure investments, the growing healthcare sector, and the city’s proximity to major metropolitan areas will likely fuel further economic expansion.

10 Growing Occupations in Frederick:

  1. Registered Nurses
  2. Software Developers
  3. Teachers
  4. Truck Drivers
  5. Customer Service Representatives
  6. Accountants and Auditors
  7. Sales Representatives
  8. Home Health Aides
  9. Marketing Specialists
  10. Physical Therapists

10 Companies Hiring Now in Frederick:

  1. Leidos
  2. Frederick Health Hospital
  3. Marriott International
  4. Amazon
  5. General Dynamics
  6. Bechtel
  7. Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
  8. Lockheed Martin
  9. Under Armour
  10. Ball Metal Packaging

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