Valley Ranked #1 in U.S. Job Creation
A recent study ranks the Greater Phoenix area as the nation's job growth leader among major metropolitan areas. Posting a 3.1 percent gain between November, 2003 and November, 2004, the Valley evidenced the highest job growth among 28 metro areas with over one million workers. Runner-ups were St. Louis at 3.0% and northern Virginia with a 2.8% increase. This marked the first time the Valley hit #1, after consistently enjoying top five rankings.
The construction sector encompassed many of the gains, as 14,500 construction jobs were created during the 12-month period. Other areas with strong showings included education, health services and business services.
Another measurement focus, the business conditions index, likewise produced very positive data. Its reading rose to 64.6 in December, up from 61.4 in November. This marked the 20th consecutive score above the crucial 50 mark. (Readings above 50 demonstrate growth in the local economy).
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