TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA—The Florida Department of Commerce announced that the state’s total private sector employment increased by 21,800 jobs, up 0.2% from the previous month.
Florida now has a $1.7 trillion economy, reinforcing its position as an economic powerhouse.
This month, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Florida as the nation’s No. 1 economy for the second year and No. 1 in economic growth. Florida also ranks No.1 in higher education for the ninth consecutive year, No. 2 in education overall, and No. 6 in all states.
Florida has added 3.6 million new business formations since 2019, and its labor force has surpassed 11.2 million, reflecting its continued commitment to growth, opportunity, and strategic investments. Florida also leads the nation in tourism, welcoming 33.1 million visitors, marking the highest number ever recorded for Q4.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida continues to expand target industries by remaining committed to growth and strategic investments,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “With a $1.7 trillion economy, Florida ranks as the #1 economy in the nation, we continue to attract talent and build confidence for businesses and a future full of opportunity for Floridians.”
As of April 2025, Florida employers have added jobs in 57 of the last 60 months since May 2020. Florida’s total private employment increased by 125,700 (+1.4%) in April 2025. Florida’s statewide unemployment has been lower than the national rate for 54 consecutive months since November 2020.
Florida’s private sector job growth rate has exceeded the national rate for 47 of the last 49 months since April 2021. The industry that gained the most jobs in April 2025 was the education and health services sector, adding 8,000 jobs, followed by professional and business services, adding 7,400 jobs.
Source: Space Coast Daily
