Local

Bouncing back: Florida sees economic growth as unemployment numbers improve

ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida is bouncing back, with both jobs and economic stability.

That’s the message from Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday after new unemployment numbers were released.

READ: FDEO: Orlando Metro gained highest number of private sector jobs in December

Florida’s unemployment rate for January was 3.5%.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

Staffing agencies say they expect numbers to continue to get better.

Nilda Blanco with CareerSource said she’s been seeing a lot more people get jobs this year than last year.

“The market is there,” Blanco said. “Obviously businesses are clamoring for good talent, but we have seen more folks coming to the job center and getting back into work.”

READ: FWC officials share tips on how to protect Florida’s wildlife as activity increases in spring

About 6,000 people have been hired so far this March, which is up 40% from last year.

The state said it’s seeing growth throughout Florida.

The unemployment rate has decreased by 2.5% over the year, which is half a percentage point lower than the national rate.

READ: Orlando couple to launch into space alongside Pete Davidson on Blue Origin flight

The state said the largest growing industry is the private sector. At the top of the list are 9,300 new jobs in professional and business services, along with 7,400 new jobs in trade, transportation and utilities. Blanco said looking at the new numbers, she’s optimistic our economy will continue to show growth.

“There are definitely opportunities out there, and we are seeing folks that want to come in that want to get connected with these great jobs,” Blanco said.

Blanco said the average salary for a job posting right now is $38,000 a year.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.