Leon County’s Job Market Hits a Rough Patch

News Summary

Leon County has experienced a decline in its job market, with 1,001 jobs lost in November 2024. The unemployment rate has risen to 3.9%, up from 3.7% in October, reflecting broader labor market challenges. Despite losing jobs, average weekly wages have increased by $71, indicating some resilience. Additionally, Amazon has expanded its presence in the area, adding over 2,000 jobs, helping to offset the job losses. The situation remains mixed as local officials work to improve employment conditions.

Leon County’s Job Market Hits a Rough Patch

In a turn of events, Leon County has seen a noticeable drop in its job market. According to recent reports, the number of jobs in the area fell by 1,001 in November 2024, marking a significant decline from the previous month. As a result, only 158,863 people were employed in November, down from 159,864 in October. The shifting landscape has brought with it a rise in the unemployment rate to 3.9%, a slight increase from the 3.7% reported in October. To put this into perspective, last year at this time, the unemployment rate was just 3.2%.

What’s Happening in the Workforce?

In November 2024, the workforce size in Leon County decreased to 165,333, a drop from 165,981 in October. To add to the concerns, the job count was 708 less than what it was a year earlier. Yet, the good news is that the current labor force has seen an uptick of 438 individuals compared to last November, indicating some resilience in the job market despite the ups and downs.

Earlier in the year, Leon County experienced a surge, gaining over 1,000 jobs in the third quarter of 2024. However, that momentum appears to have shifted recently, and local officials are closely monitoring the situation to turn things around.

Impact of Average Weekly Wages

On a brighter note, average weekly wages in Leon County have seen a significant boost, increasing by about $71. This rise reflects a more than 6% jump since last year, which provides some relief for workers amid the job market’s challenges.

Construction Slowdown

27% when compared to the third quarter of 2023. This slowdown could be contributing to the job declines seen recently, as fewer construction jobs typically imply reduced economic activity.

Amazon’s Growing Presence in Leon County

1,000 new jobs to the area. Currently, the center has grown to over 2,000 employees, along with approximately 300 at its delivery station. This growth is largely attributed to soaring customer demand, with the center now fulfilling over 200,000 packages per day.

Amazon’s impact on the job market is significant, especially as 43% of the new positions created target areas with historically high unemployment, such as the 32304 zip code. To support its employees, Amazon has implemented transportation services for those lacking public transport options. They offer competitive wages starting at $17 per hour and provide health benefits from day one, ensuring new hires feel valued right from the start.

Wage Increases and Supporting Growth

$13 per hour for non-tipped employees in 2024, local wages are being positively influenced. Amazon has also stepped up to raise their average base wage to over $22 per hour, with total compensation averaging more than $29 per hour. Programs like Amazon’s Career Choice provide prepaid college tuition, allowing employees, like Tra’Kwajah Holton, to further their education while working.