West Palm Beach, Fla. (Jul 18, 2025) – Palm Beach County’s economy continues to expand, with 10,900 new jobs added over the past year and a growing labor force reaching 779,860 in June 2025. The unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.9 percent, matching the state average. This modest increase is not a sign of job loss but rather a reflection of more people actively entering the workforce, including many new graduates in June who are beginning their job search.
June is traditionally a graduation month, and many recent high school and college graduates are counted as unemployed until they secure their first job. This seasonal pattern often results in a temporary increase in unemployment figures even during periods of job growth.
Where the Jobs Are: Industry Highlights
Palm Beach County remains a leader in job creation.
• Education and Health Services grew by 6.2 percent, adding 7,200 jobs. This was the second fastest growth rate in Florida.
• Manufacturing rose by 2.7 percent, and Information by 1.8 percent. Both industries outpaced statewide averages.
• Additional job gains occurred in Government (900), Financial Activities (300), and Professional and Business Services (700).
To provide a clearer picture of the job landscape, here’s a breakdown of job changes across major industries:
|
Industry
|
Job Change
|
Jobs
|
|
Education and Health Services
|
+7,200
|
123,800
|
|
Trade, Transportation, and Utilities
|
+1,400
|
127,800
|
|
Government
|
+900
|
62,100
|
|
Professional and Business Services
|
+700
|
135,000
|
|
Manufacturing
|
+600
|
23,000
|
|
Financial Activities
|
+300
|
50,300
|
|
Information
|
+200
|
11,600
|
|
Leisure and Hospitality
|
-400
|
93,400
|
|
Construction
|
-200
|
44,300
|
More Participation Means More Opportunity
The increase in unemployment reflects a larger, more active labor force, not a decline in job availability. As more individuals move to Palm Beach County or enter the job market, including many new graduates, employers have access to a deeper talent pool. This signals continued hiring potential and workforce expansion.
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