(The Center Square) − Louisiana’s economy continues to show steady growth, with over 20,000 jobs added in the past year, according to new data from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.
As of November 2024, the state’s seasonally adjusted total nonfarm employment reached 1,971,200 jobs, up by 20,600 from November 2023.
The private sector contributed significantly to these gains, with an increase of 14,100 jobs over the same period, marking Louisiana’s 44th consecutive month of year-over-year job growth in nonfarm employment.
“Adding 20,600 jobs over the past year highlights the incredible progress Louisiana is making in strengthening our economy,” said Susana Schowen, Secretary of the Louisiana Workforce Commission. “By assisting economic development efforts and supporting job seekers, we are building a dynamic workforce that drives growth and enhances opportunities for communities across the state.”
Key sectors driving the state’s job growth include:
Private Education and Health Services: Gained 10,000 jobs over the year.Construction: Added 7,800 jobs over the year.Government: Increased by 6,500 jobs since November 2023.
In November 2024 alone, significant monthly gains were seen in the Leisure and Hospitality sector (+1,600 jobs), Other Services (+1,100 jobs), and Government (+600 jobs).
Among Louisiana’s metropolitan statistical areas, several regions posted notable year-over-year gains:
New Orleans: Added 8,900 jobs, with 2,100 gained in November alone.Lafayette: Gained 1,800 jobs over the year and 800 in November.Baton Rouge: Added 1,900 jobs compared to last year.Lake Charles: Increased by 1,200 jobs year-over-year.
Other areas, including Alexandria, Hammond, and Shreveport, also recorded steady growth. However, Monroe experienced a slight decline, losing 400 jobs compared to November 2023.
Despite the job gains, Louisiana’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose slightly to 4.3% in November 2024, up from 4.1% in October and 4.0% a year ago. The number of unemployed individuals increased by 5,705 compared to November 2023, while the number of employed individuals decreased by 13,010 over the same period.