San Bernardino, CA – December 2023 Jobs Report – Modest Gains Amidst Regional Uncertainty

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December 2023 presented a mixed picture for San Bernardino’s job market. While final, seasonally adjusted data isn’t available yet, preliminary figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) suggest modest job growth alongside a stable unemployment rate. However, concerns about national economic headwinds linger.

Highlights:

  • Employment: Total nonfarm employment in the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), which includes San Bernardino, reached 1,722,400, representing an increase of 2,100 jobs from November 2023 and 7,500 jobs from December 2022.
  • Unemployment: The unemployment rate for the MSA remained unchanged at 5.1%, indicating a competitive labor market compared to 5.4% in December 2022.

Growing Industries and Occupations:

  • Retail Trade: This sector led the way with 2,300 new jobs, fueled by holiday shopping and ongoing recovery in consumer spending.
  • Leisure and Hospitality: Restaurants and hotels added 1,500 jobs, reflecting a rebounding tourism industry.
  • Professional and Business Services: Expansion in professional, scientific, and technical services occupations contributed 700 new jobs.
  • Construction: This sector grew by 200 jobs, indicating potential growth in the local housing market.

Shrinking Industries and Occupations:

  • Information: Telecommunications and information services shed 400 jobs.
  • Government: Public sector employment decreased by 30 jobs, potentially due to seasonal fluctuations or budget constraints.
  • Manufacturing: This sector saw a decline of 10 jobs, primarily in durable goods manufacturing.

Compared to Same Month Last Year:

  • December 2023’s job growth of 0.9% exceeded the 0.4% increase in December 2022, showing slight improvement.
  • The unemployment rate remained stable at 5.1%, compared to 5.4% in December 2022.

Compared to Previous Month:

  • December 2023 saw slightly 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:

Experts predict continued job growth for San Bernardino in 2024, fueled by expansion in healthcare, logistics, and construction. However, national economic uncertainties like inflation and rising interest rates could impact future trends.

10 Growing Occupations:

  1. Registered Nurses
  2. Customer Service Representatives
  3. Home Health and Personal Care Aides
  4. Warehouse Associates
  5. Truck Drivers
  6. Construction Laborers
  7. Software Developers and Applications
  8. Retail Salespersons
  9. Physical Therapists
  10. Elementary and Middle School Teachers

10 Companies Hiring Now:

  1. Kaiser Permanente
  2. Stater Bros. Markets
  3. Amazon
  4. Walmart
  5. The Home Depot
  6. Fontana Unified School District
  7. FedEx Corporation
  8. Costco Wholesale
  9. Dollar General
  10. Burlington Stores

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