Florida’s Labor Market: Job Growth, Unemployment, and Workforce Trends
May 21st, 2025
Introduction
Florida’s economy in 2025 and Charlotte County’s role within it are more crucial than ever as the state navigates a complex labor market. With steady job creation and relatively low unemployment, the outlook may seem bright on the surface. But a deeper dive reveals significant challenges. Workforce participation is slipping. Key industries are facing talent shortages. And the demographic shifts reshaping Florida are forcing employers to rethink how they recruit, retain, and train their teams.
So, where does Charlotte County fit into this broader picture?
Right at the center.
Tucked between Tampa and Fort Myers, Charlotte County is not just keeping pace—it’s setting the pace in Southwest Florida when it comes to proactive workforce strategies and economic resilience. In this blog, we’ll explore statewide labor trends, then zoom in on Charlotte County to spotlight how it’s tackling 2025’s workforce headwinds head-on.
Florida’s Labor Market Overview
Florida’s job market has long been a bright spot in the U.S. economy. Even as national hiring cools in 2025, Florida continues to grow—just at a more sustainable rate.
The state’s non-agricultural job market is projected to expand by 1.00% to 1.25% this year. That’s slower than the post-COVID hiring boom, but it aligns with pre-pandemic norms. The unemployment rate, meanwhile, is expected to hold steady between 3.6% and 3.8%, staying below the national average.
But here’s the twist: while jobs are being added, fewer people are entering the workforce. As of early 2025, Florida’s labor force participation rate dipped to 58.2%—the lowest it’s been since 1983. For context, that means nearly four out of ten working-age adults aren’t in the workforce.
Why? It’s a mix of aging Baby Boomers retiring, a slowdown in younger worker migration, and rising housing costs pushing Gen Z and Millennials elsewhere.
Charlotte County’s Labor Pulse
Charlotte County reflects many of Florida’s broader economic patterns—but with a few important distinctions.
First, while the county does see a large retiree population, it’s actively courting younger workers and families through targeted workforce initiatives, quality-of-life perks, and a growing number of high-wage career opportunities. Thanks to strategic investment in infrastructure, transportation, and education, Charlotte County is positioned as a serious contender for businesses seeking talent and long-term stability.
Second, the area is seeing new job growth in industrial, logistics, construction, and healthcare sectors, which has helped insulate it from the more volatile tourism-dependent markets elsewhere in Florida. As a result, local unemployment remains low, and business expansion—particularly in Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda—is on the rise.
Third, Charlotte County is leveraging regional partnerships—like the FutureMakers Coalition and CareerSource Southwest Florida—to strengthen its workforce pipeline. The county isn’t just reacting to labor shortages. It’s working ahead of the curve to build a sustainable, skills-based economy.
Demographics and the Participation Gap
Florida’s aging population is one of the biggest drivers of the declining workforce participation rate. People are retiring faster than they’re being replaced—and that’s especially true in counties known for attracting retirees.
But Charlotte County is taking a different path.
With initiatives like the Charlotte Technical College expansion, aviation and manufacturing training programs, and support for young professionals through campaigns like “40 Under 40”, the county is actively rebalancing its demographics. It’s telling a new story—one where you can not only retire in Charlotte County but build a career and raise a family here too.
The challenge statewide is clear: how do we bring more working-age people into the fold and equip them with the skills Florida’s industries need?
Charlotte County’s answer: Start local. Train local. Hire local.
Key Industries Fueling Job Growth in 2025
Florida’s economy in 2025 is being driven by a few standout sectors:
Healthcare:
With a rapidly aging population, healthcare jobs are in high demand. In Charlotte County, HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital continues to be one of the largest employers, with recent investments in expanding services and hiring initiatives. The demand for nurses, technicians, and support staff is only growing.
Construction and Trades:
Infrastructure funding at the state and federal levels has helped boost construction employment. Charlotte County’s ongoing development in Murdock Village and airport-adjacent industrial zones means that contractors, electricians, and skilled tradespeople are more in demand than ever.
Logistics and Manufacturing:
The growth of last-mile distribution, light manufacturing, and warehouse operations in Charlotte County has created a surge in logistics-related hiring. With direct access to I-75, Port Charlotte is an ideal location for companies needing speed to market.
Education:
Schools are hiring—both K-12 and postsecondary institutions. Programs like CTC’s aviation maintenance pathway and Florida SouthWestern State College’s advanced manufacturing courses are building the next generation of talent right here in the region.
Talent Development: From Gap to Growth
Workforce development is more than just job training—it’s about shaping a resilient, future-ready economy.
The Work-Based Learning (WBL) Network powered by Xello—funded by the Florida Department of Education and adopted by all 67 school districts—is helping students in Charlotte County connect to real-world career experiences. Local engagement with this platform gives the region a competitive edge in preparing a future-ready workforce.
Here’s what’s working:
- Early career awareness in middle and high schools
- Dual-enrollment programs that accelerate job readiness
- Employer-led apprenticeships and internships
- Veteran hiring programs tied to Charlotte County’s Purple Heart Community designation
Charlotte County also collaborates with Florida APEX Accelerator network (formerly PTAC), helping small businesses and startups access government contracts and scale their workforce.
Solutions for Business Leaders
If you’re a business owner in Florida—or thinking about expanding to a place like Charlotte County—now is the time to think proactively about talent.
For Florida’s economy in 2025 and Charlotte County’s role that means:
- Offering flexible schedules and remote work options
- Supporting reskilling and upskilling of current employees
- Collaborating with local schools and training centers
- Tapping into underutilized talent pools like veterans and second-chance workers
Charlotte County’s Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) team offers free workforce assistance, helping companies plan for growth and navigate workforce grants.
It’s not just about filling jobs. It’s about building a community of skilled, invested workers who want to stay.
Conclusion
Florida’s economy in 2025 and Charlotte County’s role in it show us a new kind of labor story—one where growth is steady, but the path forward demands strategy.
Yes, challenges exist. Participation is down. Housing is expensive. And certain industries are stretched thin.
But if you look at how Charlotte County is investing in workforce development, engaging with local employers, and telling a new narrative about what it means to live and work in Southwest Florida, the future looks bright.
Sounds ambitious, right? But it’s more doable than you think.
FAQs
How does Charlotte County compare to the rest of Florida?
Charlotte County is taking an active role in reversing participation trends by investing in young talent, technical education, and career training.
What industries are growing the fastest in Charlotte County?
Healthcare, construction, logistics, and manufacturing are leading the charge, with increased hiring across the board.
Is Florida still a good place to find a job in 2025?
Absolutely. While growth has normalized, demand remains strong—especially in sectors like education, healthcare, and trades.
How is Charlotte County addressing the talent gap?
Through local partnerships, targeted programs, and strategic investments in education and employer engagement.
Where can businesses get help with workforce issues in Charlotte County?
Charlotte County Economic Development offers personalized support through its BRE team. Learn more at: https://cleared4takeoff.com/
