Jacksonville, Florida, January 8, 2026
In November 2025, the unemployment rate in the Jacksonville metropolitan area rose to 5.1%, marking the highest level since January 2021. This increase from 4.3% in September highlights a shift in local labor market dynamics. Despite the rise in unemployment, Jacksonville experienced job growth, adding 10,500 jobs over the year, primarily in the education and health services sector. However, other sectors faced job losses, indicating ongoing complexities in the regional economy.
Jacksonville Unemployment Rate Rises to 5.1% in November 2025
Jacksonville, Florida – The unemployment rate in the Jacksonville metropolitan area, encompassing Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, and St. Johns counties, increased to 5.1% in November 2025, marking the highest level since January 2021. This rise from 4.3% in September 2025 indicates a notable shift in the region’s labor market dynamics.
Statewide Unemployment Trends
At the state level, Florida’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate also saw an uptick, rising from 3.9% in September to 4.2% in November 2025. This statewide increase reflects broader economic challenges affecting the region.
Job Growth Amid Rising Unemployment
Despite the uptick in unemployment, the Jacksonville area experienced job growth. Nonfarm businesses added 10,500 jobs from November 2024 through November 2025, a 1.3% increase. This growth was primarily driven by the private education and health services sector, which added 9,500 jobs, representing a 7% growth rate. Other sectors contributing to job gains included professional, scientific, and technical services, and leisure and hospitality.
Sector-Specific Employment Changes
While several sectors reported job gains, some experienced declines. The administrative support and waste management and remediation services sector saw a reduction of 700 jobs, a 1.3% decrease. Additionally, the wholesale trade sector and financial activities sector each lost 700 jobs, corresponding to declines of 1.7% and 0.7%, respectively.
Historical Context
The November 2025 unemployment rate of 5.1% is the highest in the Jacksonville metropolitan area since January 2021, when it also stood at 5.1%. This period coincided with the economic recovery phase following the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion
The recent increase in Jacksonville’s unemployment rate underscores the complexities of the regional labor market. While certain sectors continue to show growth, the overall rise in unemployment highlights the need for ongoing economic strategies to support job creation and workforce stability in Northeast Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current unemployment rate in Jacksonville, Florida?
The unemployment rate in the Jacksonville metropolitan area, which includes Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, and St. Johns counties, rose to 5.1% in November 2025.
How does this compare to previous months?
In September 2025, the unemployment rate was 4.3%, indicating a significant increase over the two-month period leading up to November.
Which sectors are contributing to job growth in the region?
The private education and health services sector led job growth, adding 9,500 jobs, a 7% increase. Other sectors with job gains include professional, scientific, and technical services, and leisure and hospitality.
Are there sectors experiencing job losses?
Yes, the administrative support and waste management and remediation services sector lost 700 jobs, a 1.3% decrease. The wholesale trade and financial activities sectors each saw a reduction of 700 jobs, corresponding to declines of 1.7% and 0.7%, respectively.
How does the current unemployment rate compare to historical data?
The November 2025 unemployment rate of 5.1% is the highest in the Jacksonville metropolitan area since January 2021, when it also stood at 5.1%.
Key Features of the Unemployment Data
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Unemployment Rate | 5.1% in November 2025 |
| Previous Unemployment Rate | 4.3% in September 2025 |
| Highest Unemployment Rate in Four Years | 5.1% in November 2025 |
| Job Growth | 10,500 jobs added from November 2024 to November 2025 (1.3% increase) |
| Leading Sector in Job Growth | Private education and health services sector (9,500 jobs added, 7% increase) |
| Sectors with Job Losses | Administrative support and waste management and remediation services (-700 jobs, -1.3%); Wholesale trade (-700 jobs, -1.7%); Financial activities (-700 jobs, -0.7%) |
| Historical Context | Highest unemployment rate since January 2021 (5.1%) |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
