January 29, 2024

Napa, CA – December 2023 Jobs Report – Napa Holds Steady Amid National Job Growth

Overview: Napa County’s employment picture remained stable in December 2023, mirroring the national trend of moderate job growth despite a slight upward tick in the unemployment rate. While not as robust as earlier months in 2023, the local economy added jobs, indicating continued resilience amidst national economic uncertainties.

Highlights:

Total nonfarm employment: Increased by 100 from November 2023 to reach 75,000, a 1.5% year-over-year growth.
Unemployment rate: Inched up to 3.7% from 3.5% in November, remaining lower than the national average of 3.9%.
Job growth: Concentrated in Professional & Business Services (up 200 jobs) and Leisure & Hospitality (up 100 jobs).
Job losses: Primarily in Manufacturing (down 50 jobs) and Trade, Transportation & Utilities (down 50 jobs).

What Industries and Occupations Grew:

Professional & Business Services: Led by growth in legal, accounting, and related professions, adding 200 jobs.
Leisure & Hospitality: Buoyed by the holiday season, hotels and restaurants added 100 jobs.
Construction: Maintained consistent employment levels (+0 jobs) despite national headwinds.
Healthcare & Social Assistance: Held steady (+0 jobs) after strong gains earlier in the year.

What Industries and Occupations Shrank:

Manufacturing: Declined by 50 jobs, primarily in food and beverage processing.
Trade, Transportation & Utilities: Shed 50 jobs, distributed across retail, trucking, and warehousing.
Government: Reduced employment by 30 jobs, mainly in administrative support roles.

Compare to Same Month Last Year:

Napa County added 1,100 jobs compared to December 2022, representing a stronger year-over-year growth rate (1.5%) than the national average (1.0%).
While the unemployment rate was slightly higher than December 2022 (3.5%), it remained close to pre-pandemic levels.

Compare to Previous Month:

Job growth slowed down compared to November 2023 (200 jobs added) but continued the positive trend since July 2023.
The unemployment rate ticked up from 3.5% in November, reflecting a slight decrease in labor force participation.

Future Outlook:

Napa County’s economy is expected to see continued, albeit moderate, job growth in 2024, driven by ongoing investment in tourism, healthcare, and professional services.
National economic uncertainties such as potential interest rate hikes and inflation could pose challenges, but the Napa Valley’s unique economic strengths are expected to provide some insulation.

10 Growing Occupations:

10 Companies Hiring Now:

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