The Olathe job market continued its growth trend in January 2024, adding 1,200 new jobs compared to December 2023. This represents a 1.5% increase in the city’s unemployment rate, which now sits at 3.2%. This is significantly lower than the national average of 3.8%.
Highlights
- The professional and business services sector led the job gains, adding 400 new positions. This was followed by the healthcare and social assistance sector, which added 300 jobs.
- The leisure and hospitality sector saw the most significant job losses, shedding 100 positions. However, this is likely due to seasonal fluctuations and is not indicative of a long-term trend.
What Industries and Occupations Grew
- Professional and business services: This sector added a diverse range of occupations, including management analysts, accountants, and marketing specialists.
- Healthcare and social assistance: The growth in this sector was driven by the addition of home health aides, nurses, and other healthcare support occupations.
- Construction: This sector added 50 new jobs, primarily in construction laborers and carpenters.
What Industries and Occupations Shrunk
- Leisure and hospitality: The job losses in this sector were concentrated in food service occupations, such as cooks and waiters.
- Retail trade: This sector lost 20 jobs, primarily in sales occupations.
Compare to Same Month Last Year
Compared to January 2023, the Olathe job market has added 2,500 new jobs, representing a 3% increase. This growth is significantly faster than the national average of 1.5%.
Compare to Previous Month
The January 2024 job report shows a slight increase in the unemployment rate compared to December 2023. However, this is likely due to seasonal fluctuations and is not indicative of a broader trend.
Future Outlook
The Olathe job market is expected to continue growing in the coming months, driven by the expansion of the healthcare and professional services sectors. The city’s strong economic fundamentals and strategic location are also likely to attract new businesses and create additional job opportunities.
10 Growing Occupations in Olathe, KS
- Registered Nurses
- Software Developers and Programmers
- Marketing Specialists
- Management Analysts
- Accountants and Auditors
- Customer Service Representatives
- Home Health Aides
- Personal Care Aides
- Construction Laborers
- Carpenters
10 Companies Hiring Now in Olathe, KS
- Garmin
- AdventHealth
- Cerner Corporation
- Lowe’s Companies, Inc.
- Home Depot
- Inova Health System
- Xactly Corporation
- Sprint Corporation
- Burns & McDonnell
- Black & Veatch