153,000 private sector jobs created since December 2010
Florida’s unemployment rate held steady at 8.8 percent for the month of August, but more than 28,000 new private sector jobs were created, the highest over-the-month change since April 2011. The August 2012 rate was 1.7 percentage points lower than the year-ago rate of 10.5 percent and Florida has gained 153,000 private sector jobs since December 2010. Since Governor Scott has been in office, the state’s unemployment rate has dropped 2.3 percentage points.
“The month of August showed that 28,000 more Floridians found employment in the private sector and are able to provide for their families,” said Governor Rick Scott. “This increase in new jobs is proving that the decisions we’re making here in Florida are pointing our state in the right direction. Employers are aware of the talented and skilled workforce we have here, and the August numbers prove that the economic climate in Florida is one that encourages job creation and economic development. Collectively, we’re creating an environment that fosters job creation, increased economic development and a positive business climate overall. I continue looking forward to identifying ways we can make Floridians and their companies more successful and ensuring Florida is the No. 1 business destination in the world.”
Positive workforce trends
- Florida’s unemployment rate has declined over the year for 21 consecutive months
- Florida’s unemployment rate has declined or held steady for 13 of the last 14 months
- Florida’s job growth month to month has been positive for 11 of the last 14 months
- Florida has continued to see positive annual job growth for 25 consecutive months
