2013 in Review: Finally Some Real Job Growth

Oregon finally saw some real job growth in 2013. The state’s economy was strong enough to add 37,300 jobs over the year through November. That’s above average for a growth year and the largest November to November jobs gain since 2006. In fact, more jobs were created in 2013 than in 2011 and 2012 combined!  

Despite the job growth, the high number of unemployed Oregonians keeps downward pressure on worker earnings. The average hourly wage in 2013 was about $22.50 per hour. After adjusting for inflation, the average worker in Oregon is earning less than before or during the recession.

Oregon’s unemployment rate fell over the year, from 8.4 percent to 7.3 percent by November. Oregon’s unemployment rate was relatively close to the national rate of 7.0 percent in November. Similar to the past three years, steady improvement in the unemployment rate stalled during the summer but continued to improve in the fall months. 

For more details on Oregon's job growth in 2013, read Nick Beleiciks' full article at QualityInfo.org.