Tallahassee, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced Florida continues to show positive economic indicators. In October, the labor force participation rate has increased for the third consecutive month as Florida’s unemployment rate remains at a low 3.2 percent. Also, businesses created 22,800 new private-sector jobs in October. Florida’s annual private-sector job growth rate of 2.8 percent continues to outpace the national job growth rate of 1.5 percent.

“Florida is the place to be – businesses and communities are growing and thriving,” said Governor DeSantis. “To make sure we continue this positive trend, my administration will remain committed to policy that encourages opportunity and innovation.”

Recently, Governor DeSantis has traveled the country to promote of Florida’s business-friendly environment. Florida’s low taxes, reasonable regulatory climate and top rated public university system continue to attract investment and expansion. The state’s investment in infrastructure and environment also add to Florida’s commercial appeal.

This month, Governor DeSantis has announced plans to improve Florida’s infrastructure through roadway enhancements including the reconstruction of I-275/SR 60 Westshore Area Interchange in Tampa and breaking ground on the new flyover at Tyndall Air Force Base that will both positively impact traffic flow. Additionally, just this week he announced the award of more than $66.3 million in BUILD Transportation grants for recipients statewide and a nearly $4 million Florida Job Growth Grant Fund award for the Melbourne Airport Authority.

“Governor DeSantis is dedicated to making the future of Florida’s economy stronger and more diverse than ever,” said Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Ken Lawson. “The investments we are making in our workforce and communities are paying off as the private sector continues to create jobs at a rate faster than the nation. Floridians should be confident that there are opportunities to grow and thrive.”

Other positive economic indicators include:

• Private-sector industries gaining the most jobs over-the-year were:
• • Education and health services with 59,800 new jobs
  • Professional and business services with 41,800 new jobs
  • Leisure and hospitality with 40,300 new jobs
  • Construction with 25,300 new jobs
  • Trade, transportation and utilities with 21,400 new jobs
  • Financial activities with 15,600 new jobs
• Florida job postings showed 279,983 openings in October 2019
• Consumer Sentiment Index is 96.1 in October 2019 

To view the October 2019 jobs report by region, please see below:

Fort Lauderdale

Jacksonville

Miami

Orlando

Pensacola

Southwest Florida

Tampa

West Palm Beach

To view the October 2019 employment data visit www.floridajobs.org/labor-market-information/labor-market-information-press-releases/monthly-press-releases.

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