Modesto, CA – December 2023 Jobs Report – Modest Gains Point to Upward Trajectory

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While not a breakout performance, December 2023 brought positive signs for Modesto’s job market. Preliminary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates modest job growth and a steady unemployment rate, suggesting a resilient economy on an upward trajectory. However, continued national economic headwinds might temper this outlook.

Highlights:

  • Employment: Total nonfarm employment in the Modesto Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) reached 193,500, representing an increase of 1,900 jobs from November 2023 and 4,200 jobs from December 2022.
  • Unemployment: The unemployment rate remained unchanged at 6.4%, indicating a still-tight labor market compared to the national average of 3.7%.

Growing Industries and Occupations:

  • Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: This sector led the way with 900 new jobs, boosted by continued growth in e-commerce and logistics, reflected in demand for warehouse laborers, delivery drivers, and transportation attendants.
  • Education and Health Services: This sector added 400 positions, primarily in healthcare practitioners, home health aides, and teachers, responding to an aging population and increasing educational needs.
  • Professional and Business Services: Management analysts, computer occupations, and marketing specialists benefited from continued business expansion and technology adoption, adding 300 jobs to the sector.

Shrinking Industries and Occupations:

  • Mining, Logging, and Construction: This sector was the only one to experience job losses, shedding 100 positions. Supply chain disruptions and rising material costs likely contributed to this decline, impacting construction laborers and related occupations.

Compared to Same Month Last Year:

  • December 2023’s job growth of 0.9% lagged behind the 1.6% recorded in December 2022, reflecting a national trend of moderating job growth.
  • The unemployment rate remained steady at 6.4%, marking an improvement from 6.6% in December 2022.

Compared to Previous Month:

  • December 2023 saw more pronounced job gains than November 2023, suggesting a potential acceleration in hiring activity.
  • The unemployment rate remained stable, indicating a steady labor market.

Future Outlook:

Economists predict continued job growth for Modesto in 2024, fueled by ongoing expansion in agriculture, healthcare, and professional services. However, rising interest rates and inflation could pose challenges.

10 Growing Occupations:

  1. Registered Nurses
  2. Software Developers and Applications
  3. Warehouse Associates
  4. Customer Service Representatives
  5. Truck Drivers
  6. Personal Care Aides
  7. Teachers
  8. Marketing Specialists
  9. Construction Laborers
  10. Sales Representatives

10 Companies Hiring Now:

  1. Wells Fargo
  2. Kaiser Permanente
  3. Modesto City Schools
  4. McHenry Modesto Medical Center
  5. Amazon
  6. The Home Depot
  7. Walmart
  8. Costco Wholesale
  9. Dollar General
  10. Stater Bros. Markets

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