Virginia’s labor market continues to demonstrate robust growth, with nonfarm payroll employment increasing by 7,100 jobs in January 2025. This follows a revised gain of 14,200 jobs in December 2024, bringing the total number of nonfarm jobs in the Commonwealth to 4,281,000. Since January 2022, Virginia has added 276,400 jobs, with more than 70,000 additional hires anticipated based on company announcements. (governor.virginia.gov)
Governor Glenn Youngkin attributed this economic momentum to workforce expansion and pro-business policies. He stated, "More Virginians are working than ever in the Commonwealth as jobs and opportunity continue to expand in Virginia." He further emphasized, "This performance underscores the success of our pro-business policies and our ongoing focus on workforce development, which are providing Virginia companies the talent they need to grow and Virginians with the opportunities to succeed." (governor.virginia.gov)
Additional data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS) revealed a rise in total employment to 4,464,393 Virginians, with the state’s unemployment rate holding steady at 3.0 percent—1.0 percentage point below the national average. Labor force participation remained strong at 65.8 percent, with January seeing an increase of 2,893 workers. (governor.virginia.gov)
Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater highlighted the state’s commitment to fostering an environment where workers can thrive, noting, "The robust growth in the Commonwealth’s job count highlights Virginia’s strong economic momentum, demonstrating that our businesses are thriving and creating new opportunities for Virginians." (governor.virginia.gov)
Secretary of Commerce Caren Merrick also emphasized the positive economic trends, stating, "The robust growth in the Commonwealth’s job count highlights Virginia’s strong economic momentum, demonstrating that our businesses are thriving and creating new opportunities for Virginians." (governor.virginia.gov)
For further details, visit the Department of Workforce Development and Advancement at Virginia Works.
Which areas within Virginia have the highest job growth?
Table of Contents
- Which areas within Virginia have the highest job growth?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 1. what is the current unemployment rate in Virginia?
- 2.How many jobs has Virginia added since january 2022?
- 3. What sectors have experienced the most job growth in Virginia?
- 4.How does Virginia’s labor force participation rate compare nationally?
- 5. Were can I find more information about Virginia’s labor market statistics?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. what is the current unemployment rate in Virginia?
As of January 2025, Virginia’s unemployment rate is 3.0%, which is 1.0 percentage point below the national average of 4.0%. ([virginiaworks.gov](https://www.virginiaworks.gov/virginias-january-unemployment-rate-increased-by-0-1-percentage-points-to-3-0-percent-labor-force-participation-rate-remained-unchanged-at-65-8-percent-and-employment-increased-by-769-to-44/?utm_source=openai))
2.How many jobs has Virginia added since january 2022?
Since January 2022, Virginia has added 276,400 nonfarm payroll jobs, with more than 70,000 additional hires anticipated based on company announcements. ([governor.virginia.gov](https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2025/march/name-1043039-en.html?utm_source=openai))
3. What sectors have experienced the most job growth in Virginia?
The sectors with the largest job gains over the year include Education and Health Services (+33,900 jobs), Government (+23,600 jobs), and Professional and Business Services (+12,400 jobs). ([virginiaworks.gov](https://www.virginiaworks.gov/virginias-january-unemployment-rate-increased-by-0-1-percentage-points-to-3-0-percent-labor-force-participation-rate-remained-unchanged-at-65-8-percent-and-employment-increased-by-769-to-44/?utm_source=openai))
4.How does Virginia’s labor force participation rate compare nationally?
Virginia’s labor force participation rate stands at 65.8%, which is higher than the national rate of 65.0%. ([virginiaworks.gov](https://www.virginiaworks.gov/virginias-january-unemployment-rate-increased-by-0-1-percentage-points-to-3-0-percent-labor-force-participation-rate-remained-unchanged-at-65-8-percent-and-employment-increased-by-769-to-44/?utm_source=openai))
5. Were can I find more information about Virginia’s labor market statistics?
For detailed information, visit the Department of Workforce Development and Advancement at Virginia Works.
