The latest statistical data from the Florida Chamber of Commerce point to a possible slowdown in growth in 2026, although growth remains strong—among the highest in the country.
Population continues to grow, but at a slower pace
With more deaths than births, Florida relies on interstate migration and immigration for its population growth. However, this growth slowed in the first half of 2026 due to a decline in immigration. In 2025, Florida remained the second-most attractive U.S. state behind Texas, recording 551 net new arrivals per day, compared with more than 1,640 in 2022 (U.S. Census Bureau).
The counties experiencing population growth in 2025 were Polk, Pasco, and Marion, while Miami-Dade (-49 people/day), Broward (-13 people/day), and Pinellas (-18 people/day) saw a slight decline.
In 2025, 89% of net migration came from international arrivals, 38% of whom were from South and Central America (Venezuela, Colombia, Mexico), and 39% from the Caribbean (Cuba, Haiti). By comparison, more than half of the new arrivals in 2022 were Americans.
14th Largest Economy in the World
According to the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Florida had become the 14th largest economy in the world by GDP (Gross Domestic Product of $1.8 trillion), surpassing Mexico and Australia, and trailing Canada, which ranked 10th.
At the end of August 2026, the inflation rate in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach region was 3.7% compared to August 2025, versus 3.5% nationally (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Labor Market
In February 2025, the labor market surpassed 10 million jobs for the first time. After a period of slowdown in early 2026, growth resumed in early summer 2026. The rate of new job creation in Florida has been in line with the national rate (0.3%) since June 2026.
In August, the unemployment rate of 4.5% was slightly higher, particularly among young people, compared to 4.1% nationally in August 2026. Unemployment is largely due to a reluctance to hire amid general economic uncertainty, rather than waves of mass layoffs. As companies slow down their hiring, they are prioritizing experienced employees over new entrants to the workforce. There is also sometimes a mismatch between higher education and the needs of the labor market.
Industries that offer high salaries (IT, finance, insurance) are losing jobs, as is the real estate sector. In contrast, the service, manufacturing, healthcare, arts and recreation, and education sectors continue to create jobs that are relatively well-paid.
The aerospace and aviation sector is thriving, with a 31% increase in jobs created between 2020 and 2025 and projected growth of 10% per year through 2030. In fact, companies in the sector are turning their attention to Florida’s universities to build a pool of skilled workers. The partnership between St. Petersburg College and nearby airports is a good example of this, allowing students to gain exposure to and interact with the aviation community throughout their studies.
Sources: www.bls.gov; www.census.gov; https://www.flchamber.com/thank-you-2026-florida-economic-business-mid-year-report/
