Shreveport, LA – The Shreveport Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) recorded modest job growth in October 2024, with the addition of 300 jobs, according to the latest data from the Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC). Over the past year, the Shreveport MSA has seen a net gain of 100 jobs, reflecting a slow but steady improvement in the region’s employment landscape.
This growth is part of a broader trend across Louisiana, where the state added 7,700 seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs in October, bringing the total to 1,965,500. Over the past year, Louisiana has added 9,500 jobs, marking 43 consecutive months of year-over-year gains in nonfarm employment.
Key Sectors Driving Growth
Statewide, the construction industry led the charge, adding 3,400 jobs in October. Private education and health services also contributed significantly, with 2,000 new positions, while manufacturing added 800 jobs. These sectors are vital contributors to the state’s economic momentum, supporting Louisiana’s efforts to attract investment and foster a skilled workforce.
Shreveport’s Role in the Recovery
The Shreveport MSA’s October job gains reflect incremental progress as the region recovers from economic challenges. With 177,400 jobs recorded in October, the area continues to benefit from growth in industries such as healthcare and construction, which are driving employment statewide.
State Senator Adam Bass, who represents the district that includes Barksdale Air Force Base, highlighted the importance of economic development initiatives in bolstering regional job opportunities. “Shreveport’s steady job growth is encouraging and underscores the resilience of our community. Continued investment in workforce development and infrastructure will be key to sustaining this momentum,” said Bass.
Louisiana’s Workforce Trends
Statewide, private-sector employment also showed gains, with 7,100 new jobs added in October, bringing the total to 1,643,100. Compared to October 2023, private-sector employment increased by 3,900 jobs, underscoring Louisiana’s efforts to enhance workforce readiness and support economic development.
However, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose slightly to 4.1%, up from 3.9% in September. Despite this increase, the rate remains one of the lowest for the month of October in Louisiana’s history.