Population: 20,271,000
2016 job growth: 3.0 percent
New jobs in 2016: 242,870
Unemployment rate by year-end 2016: 4.9 percent
Largest company in state: World Fuel Services
Florida ranks fifth on the job growth rate list. The tourism industry is strong within Florida, known for its sandy beaches and amusement parks, and has no signs of slowing down. The industry contributes $67 billion annually to Florida's economy. Along with the tourism industry, population growth helps sustain Florida's job growth rate. According to the Herald-Tribune, Florida gains approximately 1,000 new residents a day, and this spurs growth in the construction and healthcare industries within the state.
