10 States With Most Jobs in Tech, Healthcare, and Tourism

By: Jasper Merrenor  | 
The combined presence of Amazon and Shutterstock make Washington a key player in the global economy. Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

The states with most jobs don't just have booming economies. They also offer diverse industries, high job openings, and strong employment numbers backed by labor statistics.

From rapid economic growth to large-scale hiring in key sectors like health care, construction, and technology, these states are shaping the future of the U.S. labor market.

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1. California

California has one of the largest labor markets in the country. Its diverse economy spans entertainment, professional services, healthcare, and technology. The state remains a top destination for both workers and employers despite high costs of living.

Rapid economic growth in industries like clean energy and tech continues to drive job openings. Demographic shifts and an aging population have also increased demand for health care professionals.

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2. Texas

Texas has the second-largest total employment among U.S. states, behind California.

With millions of available jobs across sectors like manufacturing, technology, health care, and energy, the Lone Star State is a magnet for job seekers. The state's economy benefits from a large labor force and relatively low unemployment rate.

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Texas also draws skilled workers through workforce training programs and business-friendly policies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Texas led all states in net job gains for 2024 (+284,200 jobs).

3. Florida

Florida’s employment landscape is powered by tourism, construction, and health care. The state sees strong seasonal and year-round hiring.

Thanks to a growing population and booming housing market, job seekers will find opportunities in both skilled trades and professional roles.

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The state’s economy has been resilient in the face of supply chain issues and inflation, making it a dependable job market.

4. New York

New York remains a powerhouse in sectors like finance, education, health care, and government. While urban centers like New York City dominate the job market, upstate areas are also seeing growth in manufacturing and services. Buffalo will even pay you to move there.

Workforce development efforts and investments in infrastructure are boosting employment across the state. According to the Census Bureau, New York’s labor force remains among the largest in the nation.

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5. North Carolina

North Carolina is gaining traction thanks to expanding sectors like biotechnology, education, and manufacturing. Employers are investing heavily in workforce training to meet the needs of a changing labor market.

Job openings have surged, and the unemployment rate has remained below the national average. With an emphasis on professional services and technology, the state is attracting both companies and skilled workers.

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6. Georgia

Georgia's economy thrives on logistics, technology, and film production. Atlanta serves as a major hub for corporate headquarters, attracting job seekers from across the country.

With a focus on transportation infrastructure and skilled labor, Georgia has seen consistent job growth. According to BLS data, Georgia’s job openings rate was about 5.2 percent in July 2025—slightly above the U.S. average of 4.3 percent.

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7. Washington

Washington has seen moderate job growth in its technology and health care sectors, with overall employment rising about 0.5 percent in the past year rather than at a rapid pace.

With companies like Microsoft and Amazon headquartered here, the state plays a central role in the global economy.

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Its employment numbers are boosted by demand in professional services and manufacturing. Workforce training and education are priorities, ensuring a steady supply of skilled employees.

8. Illinois

Illinois, particularly the Chicago metro area, remains a key player in finance, transportation, and health care. The state's labor market has been recovering well, with open positions across diverse industries.

Despite economic challenges, Illinois continues to draw workers with its urban job density and access to major employers.

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9. Arizona

Arizona has become a hot spot for job seekers, with high demand in construction, manufacturing, and health care. Population growth and investment in infrastructure are fueling the state’s job market.

Employers are responding with more workforce training and educational programs to develop the skills needed for long-term employment growth.

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10. North Dakota

North Dakota may be small in population, but it punches above its weight in employment. Fueled by oil, agriculture, and energy production, the state has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country.

Labor statistics show high job openings, especially in operations and skilled trades. Despite its size, North Dakota’s economy offers solid opportunities.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

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