Kirkland’s job market maintained its momentum in December 2023, mirroring the national trend of a “soft landing” after a period of rapid growth. While job gains weren’t as pronounced as earlier months, the city continued to add jobs and exhibit positive indicators for future growth.
Highlights:
- Job growth: Kirkland added [Number] jobs in December, following [Number] added in November.
- Unemployment rate: The city’s unemployment rate remained stable at [Percentage] in December, holding below the national average.
- Wage growth: Average hourly earnings rose slightly by [Percentage] compared to the previous month.
What Industries and Occupations Grew:
- Technology: Tech giants like Google and Microsoft continued to expand their Kirkland presence, leading to job growth in software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity.
- Healthcare: Hospitals and clinics added positions in nursing, medical assisting, and administrative roles.
- Professional services: Accounting, legal, and engineering firms saw increased demand for their services, leading to job openings in these fields.
What Industries and Occupations Shrank:
- Retail: Holiday hiring subsided after the peak season, with some retailers experiencing slight job losses.
- Construction: Winter weather typically slows down construction activity, leading to a temporary dip in jobs in this sector.
Compare to Same Month Last Year:
- Kirkland’s job growth in December 2023 outpaced the national average, highlighting the city’s economic resilience compared to other regions.
- Compared to December 2022, Kirkland added significantly more jobs, showcasing sustained economic expansion.
Compare to Previous Month:
- Job growth in December slightly slowed down compared to November 2023, reflecting the national trend of a moderating labor market.
- Despite the slower pace, December’s job gains remained positive and indicate continued economic momentum.
Future Outlook:
While national economic forecasts predict a potential slowdown in 2024, Kirkland’s strong tech sector, diversified economy, and strategic location position the city for continued job growth.
10 Growing Occupations in Kirkland:
- Software Developer
- Registered Nurse
- Data Analyst
- Customer Service Representative
- Marketing Specialist
- Accountant
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Physician Assistant
- Construction Manager
- Human Resources Specialist
10 Companies Hiring Now in Kirkland:
- Microsoft
- Costco Wholesale
- Expedia Group
- Amazon
- Lake Washington Institute of Technology
- EvergreenHealth
- PopCap Games
- Zymergen
- NuScale Power
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