Gov. Scott: Naples-Marco Island Metro Area had fastest annual job growth rate in October, Unemployment Drops to 6.4 Percent


graphup As published on Governor Rick Scott website the Naples-Marco Island Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the fastest annual job growth rate in October 2013 with 8,800 new jobs. The Naples MSA’s unemployment rate declined by 2.1 percentage points over the year,from 8.5 percent in October 2012 to 6.4 percent in October 2013.

Governor Scott said, “The Naples area’s positive job growth rate in October with 8,800 new jobs created is further proof that the steps we’re taking to create jobs and opportunities for Florida families is working. With the area’s unemployment rate dropping to 6.4 percent in October, we are seeing continued economic growth in Naples and across the state.”

The MSA had the fastest annual job growth rate in total nonagricultural employment, as well as in professional and business services (+10.4 percent), education and health services (+9.4 percent), and other services (+7.4 percent).

Housing starts were up by 46.3 percent over the year in the Naples metro area in August 2013. The Naples-Marco Island MSA showed a 21 percent increase in online job demand compared to a year ago in October 2013, with 5,055 job openings. There were 566 openings for STEM occupations in October 2013, an increase of 18.9 percent over the year. STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and these jobs are considered high wage and high skill.

Florida’s unemployment rate decreased to 6.7 percent in October 2013, down from 6.8 percent in September 2013 and 7.0 in August 2013, and down 4.4 percentage points since December 2010. The statewide unemployment rate has remained below the national average of 7.3 percent since March 2013. Florida has created 440,900 private sector jobs since December 2010.

To view the October 2013 monthly employment data, visit:

www.floridajobs.org/labor-market-information/labor-market-information-press-releases/monthly-press-releases.


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