Island economy added 7,000 jobs in November from year ago

By THE STAR STAFF

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón and Economic Development and Commerce (DDEC by its acronym in Spanish) Secretary Sebastián Negrón Reichard announced that nonfarm payroll employment in Puerto Rico reached 965,900 jobs in November 2025, marking an increase of 7,000 jobs compared to November 2024, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Seasonally adjusted figures from the Establishment Survey show that Puerto Rico achieved a historic milestone with 767,400 private-sector jobs, the highest level ever recorded on the island.

Several key industries also posted record numbers: Trade, Transportation and Utilities reported 192,900 jobs, Leisure and Hospitality (Tourism) 102,300 jobs, and Education and Health Services 129,300 jobs.

“These data confirm that our economy is generating jobs in a sustained and continuous manner, particularly in strategic sectors that directly impact economic activity and the quality of life for our families,” the governor said. “We remain focused on strengthening an investment and development climate that supports job creation and expands opportunities across the island.”

The DDEC secretary highlighted that year-over-year job growth was driven by high-performing sectors.

“In November 2025, leisure and hospitality and education and health services led job creation, with increases of 4,000 jobs (4.1%) and 3,500 jobs (2.8%), respectively,” Negrón Reichard said. “Trade, transportation, and utilities added 2,000 jobs (1.0%), while construction grew by 1,200 jobs (3.1%), reflecting a diversified and expanding economy.”

Additionally, the Household Survey reported a seasonally adjusted labor force of 1.239 million people in November 2025. Total employment reached 1.169 million, while unemployment remained historically low at around 5.7%.