Dubuque County Leads Iowa in Job Growth

According to a recent press release from Greater Dubuque, Dubuque County has set a new standard for job growth in Iowa. That's according to recent labor statistics. From August 2023 to August 2024, the Dubuque County Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) saw a 2.2% increase in jobs, adding 1,300 positions. This growth places Dubuque at the top of the state’s nine major metro areas for job gains.

Total nonfarm employment in the area now stands at 61,000, which surpasses pre-pandemic employment levels by 800 jobs. While there was a slight dip of 200 jobs from July to August, the overall year-over-year trend remains positive, showcasing the resilience of Dubuque's labor market. The private services sector played a major role in this growth, contributing 1,400 new jobs. Government employment also saw a boost, adding 200 jobs, largely due to the hiring of 500 public school employees in August.

Unemployment also saw a positive shift, dropping to 3.3%, with 300 fewer people reporting as unemployed compared to the previous month. This 0.5% decline in the unemployment rate, faster than usual for this time of year, suggests fewer residents are relying on unemployment benefits.

Despite the job growth, challenges remain, particularly around labor force participation, which hasn’t bounced back as quickly as the overall employment numbers. Factors such as hybrid work, an aging population, and mismatches between job seekers and job opportunities may be slowing the recovery in participation rates.

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Overall, the continued strength of the Dubuque economy highlights the area’s resilience and ongoing commitment to creating job opportunities. Local leaders are focused on addressing workforce participation and partnering with businesses and educational institutions to ensure long-term success for the region’s labor market.