Fresno, CA – December 2023 Jobs Report: Mixed Signals Amidst Year-End Slowdown

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Fresno’s December 2023 jobs report presents a picture of mixed messages. While job growth slowed compared to previous months, some sectors continued to expand, potentially offering opportunities for qualified candidates. However, a slight rise in the unemployment rate paints a cautious picture for the future.

Highlights:

  • Unemployment rate rises slightly: Climbing to 8.2%, the rate suggests a more competitive job market for applicants compared to November 2023.
  • Job growth decelerates: Nonfarm jobs added only 30 positions, reaching 397,400, marking a significant decline from previous months’ momentum.
  • Healthcare shows resilience: This sector added 20 jobs, encompassing hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities. Registered nurses, healthcare assistants, and medical professionals could see opportunities.

What Industries and Occupations Grew:

  • Healthcare and Social Assistance: This sector added 20 jobs, highlighting potential growth in hospitals, clinics, and social services. Registered nurses, healthcare assistants, and medical professionals might benefit.
  • Professional and Business Services: This sector added 10 jobs, encompassing areas like finance, consulting, or technology. Accountants, marketing specialists, and IT professionals could find opportunities.

What Industries and Occupations Shrank:

  • No industries reported significant job losses in December 2023. Some seasonal positions in leisure and hospitality might have ended with the holiday season.

Compare to Same Month Last Year:

  • Unemployment rate: Lower than 8.4% in December 2022, highlighting a slight improvement in the labor market.
  • Nonfarm job growth: Lower than the 200 jobs added in December 2022, showcasing a deceleration in hiring compared to the previous year.

Compare to Previous Month:

  • Unemployment rate: Increased by 0.7% compared to November 2023, indicating a slight tightening of the labor market.
  • Nonfarm job growth: Significantly lower than the 280 jobs added in November 2023, marking a slowdown in hiring.

Future Outlook:

Experts offer a guarded outlook for Fresno’s job market in 2024. The slight rise in unemployment and slower job growth suggest potential challenges. However, the stability in key sectors like healthcare and professional services could offer opportunities. Adaptability and upskilling will be crucial for job seekers navigating a potentially evolving economic landscape.

10 Growing Occupations in Fresno, CA:

  1. Registered Nurses
  2. Nursing Assistants
  3. Laborers and Food Processing Workers
  4. Truck Drivers
  5. Sales Representatives
  6. Customer Service Representatives
  7. Marketing Specialists
  8. Accountants and Auditors
  9. Construction Laborers
  10. Teachers

10 Companies Hiring Now in Fresno, CA:

  1. Clovis Unified School District
  2. Community Medical Centers
  3. Saint Agnes Medical Center
  4. Valley Children’s Healthcare
  5. Amazon
  6. Walmart
  7. Save Mart Supermarkets
  8. Dollar General
  9. Fresno County
  10. City of Fresno

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