5 US States With The Highest Labor Shortages

1. South Dakota

Unemployed Workers for Every 100 Job Openings: 29

Despite South Dakota’s unemployment rate slightly rising to 1.9% in July, it remains the fourth lowest in the US. This presents a challenge for employers, with 100 job openings for every 29 unemployed individuals. Governor Kristi Noem’s “Freedom Works Here” program received over 4,000 applicants, including 816 in the relocation process. However, only 5.3% of South Dakota’s labor force comprises immigrants, significantly lower than the national average of 18%. Targeting foreign immigrants could help alleviate the severe labor shortage, as job growth outpaces population growth, necessitating expanded recruitment efforts. With 29 candidates available for every 100 job openings, South Dakota is the US state with the highest labor shortage. 

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