Louisiana celebrates 47 months of job growth as employment rises
- Non-farm employment in Louisiana has reached 1.9 million jobs as of February 2025, reflecting ongoing growth.
- The private sector also shows positive trends with an increase to 1.6 million jobs.
- The steady job growth highlights the commitment of Louisiana's workforce and economy, supporting continued progress.
In February 2025, Louisiana reported a notable increase in non-farm employment, reaching a total of 1.9 million jobs. This marked the 47th consecutive month of employment growth in the state, demonstrating resilience and commitment from both employers and workers in various sectors. The data reflects a 2,900 job rise from January, as well as a year-over-year increase of 19,600 jobs since February 2024. The employment statistics are seasonally adjusted and suggest a steady recovery and expansion in Louisiana's job market following economic challenges faced in previous years. Private sector employment figures, while lower, also contributed positively to the overall job growth with 1.6 million jobs recorded in February. This segment saw an increase of 2,700 jobs from January, reflecting a yearly gain of 16,200 jobs since February of the previous year. Observing the sectoral breakdown, the three industries that exhibited the most significant yearly gains included private education and health services, leisure and hospitality, and manufacturing. The education and health services sector contributed over 7,400 jobs, while leisure and hospitality and manufacturing added 4,100 and 3,700 jobs, respectively. Urban areas in Louisiana also showed notable employment gains. Major cities like Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and New Orleans reported additions of 4,500, 2,300, and 7,600 jobs, respectively, since February of last year. While some cities, such as Alexandria, reported no employment change over the year, they did see a reduction of 200 jobs from January. Conversely, Houma faced job losses, indicating that the employment landscape can vary significantly across different regions within the state. Accompanying these positive employment trends, Louisiana's unemployment figures are on a slight decline. Reports noted a decrease of 1,966 unemployed individuals since January; however, there was a net increase of 5,315 unemployed persons over the past year. Secretary of the Louisiana Workforce Commission, Susana Schowen, expressed optimism regarding these statistics, emphasizing the determination of employers and workers in fostering economic growth and ensuring job access for all Louisianans. The commitment to expanding quality job opportunities remains pivotal in sustaining this momentum as the state moves forward.