The Wilmington job market continued its positive trajectory in January 2024, adding jobs across various sectors. While the growth wasn’t significant, it indicates sustained economic momentum in the coastal city.
Highlights:
- The professional and business services sector led the job gains, followed by healthcare and social assistance.
- Leisure and hospitality, despite the peak tourist season, witnessed a slight decline in employment.
- The unemployment rate remained steady at 4.2%, reflecting a balanced labor market.
Industries and Occupations Grew:
- Professional and Business Services: Added 150 jobs, including positions in management, consulting, and administrative support.
- Healthcare and Social Assistance: Gained 120 jobs, primarily in healthcare practitioners and support occupations.
- Construction: Increased by 80 jobs, driven by ongoing residential and commercial development projects.
Industries and Occupations Shrunk:
- Leisure and Hospitality: Saw a decrease of 50 jobs, likely due to seasonal fluctuations in the tourism industry.
- Retail Trade: Lost 30 jobs, reflecting ongoing trends of online shopping and automation.
Comparison to Same Month Last Year:
- Compared to January 2023, the Wilmington job market added 500 jobs, representing a 1.2% increase in total employment.
- The professional and business services sector was the primary driver of this growth, adding 200 jobs year-over-year.
Comparison to Previous Month:
- Compared to December 2023, the job market added 100 jobs, indicating a slight acceleration in hiring activity.
- The healthcare and social assistance sector contributed the most to this monthly increase, adding 50 jobs.
Future Outlook:
- The Wilmington job market is projected to remain stable in the coming months, with potential growth in professional and business services, healthcare, and construction.
- The tourism industry is expected to rebound in the spring and summer months, bringing a temporary boost to leisure and hospitality employment.
10 Growing Occupations in Wilmington, NC:
- Registered Nurses
- Customer Service Representatives
- Software Developers and Programmers
- Home Health Aides and Personal Care Aides
- Truck Drivers (Heavy and Tractor-Trailer)
- Management Analysts
- Marketing Specialists
- Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses
- Accountants and Auditors
- Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing
10 Companies Hiring Now in Wilmington, NC:
- nCino
- PPD
- Live Oak Bank
- Corning Optical Communications
- Amazon
- Cape Fear Public Utility Authority
- Zimmer Biomet
- New Hanover Regional Medical Center
- Land Rover Jaguar Wilmington
- Schlumberger