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Florida TaxWatch Economic Commentary
Florida's 2016 job growth shows continued success
Tallahassee, Fla. — Florida’s job growth in 2016 has brought the state’s employment numbers to an all-time high, according to a new report released today by Florida TaxWatch, the state’s premier nonpartisan, nonprofit government watchdog.
With an addition of 257,000 jobs in 2016, Florida continues to rise from the Great Recession. Over the past year, nearly all of Florida's major industries have seen employment gains, and the unemployment rate has fallen to 4.8 percent, continuing a steady trend over the past six years.
“The job numbers show that Florida continues to be a national leader for job creation,” said Dominic M. Calabro, President & CEO of Florida TaxWatch. “It is encouraging that Florida is adding jobs; however, we must remain focused on economic development and continue to invest in marketing the Sunshine State if we expect 2017 to be another great year in Florida.”
The positive job numbers signal a growing state economy as people get back to work. In fact, nonfarm employment is nearly 8,400,000, higher than pre-recession employment. The largest gains in employment occurred in three industries: Accommodation and Food Services (38,200), Health Care and Social Assistance (37,300), and Administration, Support, and Waste Management (32,200). Florida's favorable tax environment and diverse economy allows businesses to flourish and create opportunities for Floridians. With 2016 being a great year for the job market, Floridians can continue to be optimistic that the state is on the right path heading deeper into 2017.
About Florida TaxWatch
As an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit taxpayer research institute & government watchdog for more than one third of a century, Florida TaxWatch works to improve the productivity and accountability of Florida government. Its research recommends productivity enhancements and explains the statewide impact of fiscal and economic policies and practices on citizens and businesses.
Florida TaxWatch is supported by voluntary, tax-deductible donations and private grants, and does not accept government funding. Donations provide a solid, lasting foundation that has enabled Florida TaxWatch to bring about a more effective, responsive government that is more accountable to, and productive for, the citizens it serves since 1979. For more information, please visit http://www.floridataxwatch.org.
