Reading’s job market kicked off 2024 with continued momentum, adding jobs for the sixth consecutive month. This steady growth, while not as robust as December’s holiday hiring surge, aligns with the national trend and exceeds its pace. The unemployment rate fell to a two-year low, signaling a positive outlook for job seekers in the region.
Highlights:
- Job growth: Reading gained 350 jobs in January, bringing the total added since December to 1,120.
- Unemployment rate: The rate dropped to 3.2%, the lowest since January 2022.
- Key sectors: Healthcare and education continued to be major drivers of job growth, reflecting national trends.
What Industries and Occupations Grew:
- Healthcare: Added 120 jobs, with positions in nursing, therapy, and medical technology seeing the most growth.
- Education: Gained 75 jobs, primarily in K-12 education and administrative roles.
- Retail: Increased by 60 jobs, mainly due to seasonal hiring in preparation for Valentine’s Day.
- Manufacturing: Added 45 jobs, with growth concentrated in food processing and metalworking.
What Industries and Occupations Shrank:
- Leisure and hospitality: Lost 30 jobs, primarily in food service and accommodation sectors.
- Construction: Declined by 25 jobs, likely due to seasonal fluctuations.
- Administrative and support services: Decreased by 20 jobs, with temporary positions ending after the busy holiday season.
Compare to Same Month Last Year:
- Reading’s job market has added 2,500 jobs compared to January 2023, reflecting a 4.5% increase.
- Unemployment rate is down 1.2 percentage points year-over-year.
Compare to Previous Month:
- Job growth slowed compared to December’s 770 additions but remained positive.
- Unemployment rate dropped slightly from 3.4% in December.
Future Outlook:
While the pace of expansion might moderate in the coming months, Reading’s job market is expected to remain stable with continued growth in key sectors like healthcare and education. The low unemployment rate indicates a tight labor market, potentially leading to wage increases and attracting job seekers to the region.
10 Growing Occupations in Reading, PA:
- Registered Nurse
- Licensed Practical Nurse
- Customer Service Representative
- Truck Driver
- Teacher
- Software Developer
- Physical Therapist
- Sales Representative
- Mental Health Counselor
- Construction Laborer
10 Companies Hiring Now in Reading, PA:
- Reading Health System
- Penske Truck Leasing
- Sweet Street
- Carpenter Technology
- Albright College
- Santander Bank
- Alvernia University
- Berks County Public Schools
- The Hershey Company
- UPMC Pinnacle
Resources: