South Carolina Job Market Remains Tight as Openings Hold Steady
South Carolina’s labor market continues to show strength, with the state maintaining a ratio of 0.9 unemployed persons per job opening in July, mirroring the figure from the previous year.
The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates South Carolina and Georgia were the only states in the Southeast region not to report an increase in this ratio compared to July 2024. The Southeast region’s ratios included Kentucky (1.0), Tennessee (0.9), North Carolina (0.8), South Carolina (0.9), Georgia (0.7), Florida (1.1), Alabama (0.7), and Mississippi (0.9). This sustained low ratio suggests employers are still actively seeking workers, potentially contributing to wage pressures.
Key statistics released today show South Carolina’s job openings rate fell from 5.4 to 4.8 between June and July, though it remains higher than most of its regional neighbors. The state tied with Tennessee for the highest hires rate in the region at 3.9 percent. Overall separations rates were 3.5 percent, with quits accounting for 2.4 percent and layoffs for 1.0 percent. You can find more information about understanding the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey on the BLS website.
Officials will continue to monitor these trends as economic conditions evolve, and the next JOLTS report is scheduled for release next month. The BLS provides comprehensive labor market data for all states and the nation.
