Virginia Sees Strong Job Growth and Labor Force Gains Under Governor Youngkin

Virginia’s labor market continues to demonstrate strong growth, with nonfarm payroll employment increasing by 7,100 jobs in January, according to newly released data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Governor Glenn Youngkin highlighted the positive trends, noting that December’s job numbers were also revised upward, showing a gain of 14,200 jobs—9,300 more than previously reported. These numbers bring Virginia’s total nonfarm employment to 4,281,000, marking an overall increase of 276,400 jobs since January 2022.

Governor Youngkin credited Virginia’s economic success to pro-business policies and a focus on workforce development. “More Virginians are working than ever in the Commonwealth as jobs and opportunity continue to expand in Virginia,” Youngkin stated. “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.”

Beyond job creation, Virginia’s labor market has shown resilience and steady expansion. Data from the BLS Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS) indicated that total employment in the state increased by 769 in January, bringing the number of employed Virginians to 4,464,393. Additionally, Virginia’s unemployment rate remained steady at 3.0 percent, a full percentage point lower than the national average. The labor force participation rate also held strong at 65.8 percent.

December’s employment numbers were further bolstered by an upward revision, adding 18,984 workers to the labor force and slightly adjusting the unemployment rate to 2.9 percent. January saw continued labor force growth, with an additional 2,893 individuals joining the workforce, bringing the total to 4,601,347.

Virginia Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater emphasized the state’s commitment to maintaining a robust workforce. “Virginia’s steady labor force participation rate is a testament to the resilience and determination of our workforce, and we remain committed to fostering an environment where all Virginians have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in a growing economy,” Slater said.

Similarly, Secretary of Commerce Caren Merrick pointed to the state’s strong economic momentum as a sign of ongoing business success. “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,” Merrick stated.

With over 70,000 future hires expected due to company expansions and investments, Virginia’s job market outlook remains optimistic. The combination of business-friendly policies and workforce initiatives continues to fuel economic growth, positioning the Commonwealth as a leader in job creation and economic opportunity.