Local Economy Outpaces Most of the State as U.S. Labor Market Adds Jobs
Rockland Post Desk
NEW CITY, N.Y. — Rockland County has emerged as one of the top performers in New York State’s job market in 2025, posting the second-highest job growth rate statewide and the strongest performance in the Hudson Valley region for the 12-month period ending September 2025, according to the latest data from the New York State Department of Labor.
State labor figures show that Rockland’s private-sector employment climbed approximately 4.6 percent between September 2024 and September 2025 — a strong gain compared with most counties across New York. Only one county in the state outpaced Rockland’s job growth over this period, and no other county in the Hudson Valley approached Rockland’s pace.
Local Sectors Driving Growth
Several industries have helped fuel Rockland’s job gains. Private education and health services posted the largest employment increases, followed by gains in financial activities and professional and business services — sectors that often provide stable, year-round jobs with career advancement opportunities.
Meanwhile, some traditionally strong employers such as leisure and hospitality saw smaller gains across the broader Hudson Valley region, emphasizing that Rockland’s growth has been driven by sectors that are more resilient amid broader regional shifts. (
Local economic development leaders and workforce planners have pointed to Rockland’s industry diversity — including healthcare, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing and financial services — as a key contributor to its stronger performance. County-level economic strategies have also encouraged businesses to expand locally, helping build employer confidence.
Nationwide Labor Market Context
Across the United States, job growth in 2025 has continued steadily. National employment reports indicate that the U.S. added hundreds of thousands of jobs in key sectors such as healthcare, technology and professional services, reinforcing that strong growth in areas like Rockland County reflects broader national trends.
Projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that millions of new jobs will be added over the next decade in areas like healthcare and social assistance, reflecting long-term demographic trends.
What This Means for Rockland Residents
For Rockland jobseekers and employers alike, the county’s strong growth ranking is more than a statistic — it reflects real opportunities in fields that matter to local families and workers. Workforce development officials say that continuing this momentum will require investment in training and education, especially in high-demand fields, and efforts to connect residents with emerging career pathways. This includes focus on skills that match the needs of growing sectors like healthcare, finance and advanced services.
In the midst of a national economy with steady job additions, Rockland’s performance stands out. Local leaders hope that this trend will translate into more stable employment, new business investment, and stronger community economic health as the region moves into 2026.