Wichita’s job market displayed continued growth in January 2024, according to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [1]. This report provides a detailed analysis of the city’s employment landscape, highlighting sectors that gained traction, industries that experienced contraction, and how Wichita’s figures compare to both the national average and last year’s data.
Overview
Wichita’s unemployment rate dipped to 3.9% in January 2024, signifying a significant improvement from the national average of 4.2% [1]. This marks the third consecutive month where the city’s unemployment rate remained below 4%.
Highlights
- The professional and business services sector led job growth in Wichita, adding a substantial number of new positions in January.
- The healthcare industry also exhibited positive trends, with a significant increase in employment opportunities.
- Compared to January 2023, Wichita’s job market has grown steadily, with a noticeable uptick in employment across various sectors.
What Industries and Occupations Grew
- Professional and business services: This sector witnessed significant job growth, with a particular emphasis on occupations like management analysts, accountants, and marketing specialists.
- Healthcare: The healthcare industry continued its upward trajectory, adding new positions in nursing, medical technician roles, and other healthcare support occupations.
- Trade, transportation, and warehousing: This sector displayed moderate growth, with an increase in jobs for logistics coordinators, delivery drivers, and warehouse associates.
What Industries and Occupations Shrunk
- Leisure and hospitality: The leisure and hospitality industry witnessed a slight decline in employment opportunities, particularly in food service occupations.
- Information: The information sector experienced a modest contraction, with a decrease in jobs for computer programmers and web developers.
Compare to Same Month Last Year
Wichita’s job market has grown considerably when compared to January 2023. The unemployment rate has decreased by 0.7 percentage points, indicating a strong improvement in the overall labor market conditions.
Compare to Previous Month
Compared to December 2023, Wichita’s job market remained relatively stable. The unemployment rate held steady at 3.9%, suggesting a consistent and positive trend.
Future Outlook
Wichita’s job market is expected to maintain its momentum in the coming months. The growth in key sectors like professional and business services, coupled with a robust healthcare industry, suggests a promising outlook for employment opportunities in the city.
10 Growing Occupations in Wichita
According to the BLS, the following occupations are projected to experience the fastest employment growth in Wichita over the next decade:
- Home health and personal care aides
- Software developers, applications
- Solar photovoltaic installers
- Wind turbine service technicians
- Nurse practitioners
- Physician assistants
- Medical assistants
- Special education teachers
- Occupational therapists
- Physical therapists
10 Companies Hiring Now in Wichita
- Spirit AeroSystems
- Textron Aviation
- Koch Industries
- Via Christi Health
- Ascension Via Christi
- The Boeing Company
- Cargill
- McConnell Air Force Base
- Wichita State University
- City of Wichita
Sources