Syracuse Area Boasts Significant Job Growth – Key Sectors Driving Expansion By Kevin Tampone | [email protected] Syracuse, N.Y. – The Syracuse metropolitan area experienced substantial job growth, adding over 5,000 private sector jobs between April 2024 and April 2025, according to recent state data. This represents a remarkable increase of more than 2%, elevating the area’s private sector employment to 258,000 as of April, marking a significant post-pandemic high – exceeding 261,000 in December. These figures encompass both full-time and part-time positions, reflecting a robust recovery across diverse industries. Notably, the local unemployment rate stood impressively low at just 3%, significantly below both the statewide jobless rate of 3.6% and the national average of 3.9%. This indicates a strong and healthy labor market within the Syracuse region.
**Key Sectors Fueling Growth** The growth isn’t uniform across all industries. Several sectors played a pivotal role in this expansion. The mining, logging, and construction industry sector witnessed the most substantial percentage increase, adding 900 jobs – a 7.38% rise – between April 2024 and April 2025. This growth is likely tied to ongoing infrastructure projects and construction activity within the region. Following closely was state government, which added 700 jobs, representing a 4.12% increase. This growth reflects continued investment and employment within the public sector. Furthermore, private education and health services experienced a notable surge, gaining 1,500 jobs – a 2.48% increase – during the same period. This growth likely reflects sustained demand for educational and healthcare services within the Syracuse area. The expansion underscores the area’s economic resilience and adaptability.
**Industry Trends: Gains and Losses** Of the 19 broad industry sectors tracked by the Syracuse Labor Department, thirteen experienced job gains. However, two sectors faced challenges. Manufacturing saw a decline of 300 jobs – a 1.19% decrease – while wholesale trade experienced a 2.19% reduction, with a loss of 300 jobs. These declines highlight potential headwinds and areas requiring further analysis. It’s important to note that wholesale and retail trade are components of the broader trade, transportation, and utilities sector, indicating a broader trend within that industry segment.
The Syracuse metropolitan area encompasses Madison, Onondaga, and Oswego counties, signifying the growth’s impact across a wider geographical area. The overall economic performance of the region demonstrates a positive trajectory, driven by strategic investments and a skilled workforce. Continued monitoring of these key sectors will be crucial for understanding the long-term economic health of the Syracuse area.
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