The Iowa economy is steadily moving in the right direction, and I’m working to ensure that continues. Iowans deserve good jobs and fair pay that reward their hard work.
It’s also good news that we are making strides toward decreasing economic inequality. When median income outpaces economic growth, we know the gains are benefiting more than just the wealthy few at the top.
The economic inequality that has grown since the 1970s may finally be turning around. An analysis of census and economic data from Pew Trusts shows a big gain nationwide in median household income last year, which could mean earnings are starting to catch up to overall economic growth.
When it comes to employment, things also look good. Iowa employment is up 2 percent—that’s 31,200 jobs—over this time last year, and our unemployment rate remains low compared to most other states and to the nation as a whole.
According to the most recent employment update from Iowa Workforce Development:
- The number of working Iowans increased by 1,700 between July and August.
- The number of working Iowans is 3,600 higher than a year ago.
- For the third consecutive month, Iowa businesses expanded their payrolls, raising the total number of working Iowans.
If you want to learn more about what jobs are in demand in Iowa, as well as what they pay and the training they require, check out Iowa’s occupational forecast at www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/occupational-projections.