Change since December of last year

The unemployment rate remained above 4% in December, consistent with the trend throughout 2024 (with the exception of April). While there were about 8,000 more individuals reporting unemployment compared to December 2023, this was offset by a 10,000 increase in those reporting employment. The size of the labor force was nearly at its pre-pandemic size. However, demand for workers did not kept pace, as evidenced by a slight decrease in online job postings

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Immigrants are a vital part of Kentucky's future

A fact sheet from the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy quantifies the economic contributions of immigrants to the Commonwealth. Immigrants make up a significant part of the workforce, especially among construction laborers, software developers, physicians, and business owners. All told, Kentucky’s immigrants generate $14 billion in economic output. 

New tariffs will impact economic activity

A recent New York Times article centers Louisville in discussing how new tariffs from the Trump administration will impact economic activity. Tariff uncertainty hampers long-term planning and investment. While meant to boost manufacturing, tariffs bring volatility, higher costs, and job risks, pushing businesses toward automation amid ongoing trade policy concerns. CRG Automation, Zoeller Pump, and Lantech are featured.

Meeting the needs of workers today and opportunities for the future

A new report funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation advocates for a worker-centered approach to workforce development, emphasizing economic justice, job quality, and worker empowerment. Despite low unemployment, many workers face financial insecurity and lack access to quality jobs. The report urges stronger policies, investment, and collaboration to create a more inclusive and effective workforce system. Learn more about how KentuckianaWorks supports job quality, including the Workforce Investor Badge, here.

The Labor Market Update is a monthly report produced by KentuckianaWorks, the Louisville region's Workforce Development Board. The report gives Louisville's policymakers and business leaders an overview of the local economy through powerful visuals and concise analysis.