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Florida Adds Jobs as Housing Market Continues to Strengthen

FLORIDA BY THE NUMBERS

New Florida Data Highlights Shifting Migration, Labor Market, and 
Housing Trends

The May 2026 edition of Florida By The Numbers is now available. Florida continues growing and evolving as one of the nation’s leading economies. The latest Florida By The Numbers highlights new trends in migration, workforce participation, housing activity, and inflation that are shaping Florida’s economic outlook and long-term competitiveness. Florida Chamber Foundation Senior Research Economist Sheridan Morby breaks down what the latest numbers mean for Florida’s economy and Florida’s future competitiveness.
This month's updates include:

 
  • Migration Trends:
  • Florida’s population growth continues, with more than 550 new residents moving to Florida each day.
  • International migration remains a major driver of growth, accounting for nearly 490 new residents per day.
  • Polk County is seeing some of the strongest population gains in Florida.
 
  • Labor Market Trends:
  • After five consecutive months of annual job declines, Florida added nearly 16,000 jobs year-over-year in April.
  • Younger workers continue to experience the highest unemployment rates as more young professionals enter the workforce searching for opportunities, but are struggling to find timely employment.
 
  • Housing Market Trends:
  • Florida housing sales increased year-over-year for the eighth consecutive month.
  • New pending sales are up 8% year-over-year, signaling continued strength in housing demand.
 
  • Inflation & Interest Rates:
  • National inflation rose to 3.8% year-over-year in April, while core inflation increased to 2.8%.
  • The Federal Reserve continues signaling a cautious approach to interest rate decisions.


Additional metrics and more are found on TheFloridaScorecard.org.

 

Connect with Florida Leaders in Tampa on

June 9 to Advance Solutions on Reducing Childhood Poverty

2026 Florida Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit

In-Person registration closes next Thursday!
The Florida Chamber Foundation is preparing to hold its 2026 Florida Prosperity & Economic Opportunity Solution Summit on June 9 at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay.


This annual event, featuring keynote presentations from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and Heather Cogar, Statewide Director of Community Engagement for the Florida Prosperity Initiative, will provide insights into the 10 Root Causes of Poverty and explore actionable, data-informed solutions for business and community leaders to help advance economic opportunities at the local and statewide levels. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are available.

 
REGISTER HERE

Join Workforce, Education & Business Leaders on June 23 to Strengthen Florida's 
Talent Pipeline!

2026 Florida Learners to Earners Workforce Solution Summit
Join the Florida Chamber Foundation for the 2026 Florida Learners to Earners Workforce Solution Summit on June 23, where we will return to the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay.


This year’s event will feature presentations by U.S. Congressman Byron Donalds, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Labor Dr. Henry Mack, Florida Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas, and many more. Engage with your Florida business peers, education, and workforce advocates, and elected officials as we discuss the importance of investing in the current and future workforce to build a stronger talent pipeline for Florida.

 
REGISTER HERE

Thank You to Our Community Development Partnership Council for Driving the Research that is Securing Florida's Future!

Ready to make an impact on the future of Florida? Join our Community Development Partnership Council of forward-thinking business leaders with a deeply vested interest in our state’s success. Visit our website to learn more, and contact our Senior Research Economist, Sheridan Morby, to get engaged.
We're securing the future of Florida every day.
Connect with us to see how!