Southwestern Oregon Jobs Projected to Increase 9% by 2031
March 6, 2023Southwest Oregon’s total employment will grow by 7,100 jobs between 2021 and 2031, according to new projections from the Oregon Employment Department. Projections for the region, which includes Coos, Curry, and Douglas counties, point to modest structural job growth between 2021 and 2031 and accounts for recovery from low employment levels in 2021 amid the recovery from the COVID-19 recession. In addition, many job openings are expected due to the need to replace workers who leave their occupations.
In 2021, there were 75,140 jobs in Southwest Oregon. The 9% increase in employment between 2021 and 2031 includes private-sector gains of 6,090 jobs and 1,010 jobs in government. In comparison, Oregon statewide total employment is expected to grow 13%.
All Industries Add Jobs
All major industry sectors are expected to add jobs. The private education and health services sector will add the most, gaining 1,720 jobs (16% growth) over the 10-year period. Made up mostly of health services, the growth in this sector is attributed to the aging of the population and longer life expectancies.
Leisure and hospitality is projected to add the second-most jobs and increase the fastest. The projected 1,490 jobs (20% growth) in leisure and hospitality is largely driven by recovery from pandemic losses as restaurants, hotels, and arts, cultural, and recreational establishments continue to see increased demand as in-person and recreational activities resume.
Trade, transportation, and utilities is a large industry sector that is projected to grow by 970 jobs (8%) due to a recovery from the COVID-19 recession in retail trade, including a new WinCo grocery store in Roseburg, and demand for transportation services as more people shop online and need products delivered.
Government
Projections show relatively modest growth in government (7%). Federal government will add 120 jobs (6%), including some additional employment for fire suppression. State government is expected to add 60 jobs (5%). Local government will add 830 jobs (7%), helped by gains in education and health care.
All Industries Need Workers
Beyond gains associated with structural growth and recovery from the COVID-19 recession, all broad industry sectors will provide employment opportunities. Many job openings will be created by 2031 due to the need to replace workers who retire, leave the labor force for other reasons, or make a major occupational change.
More information on 2021-2031 industry and occupational projections for Oregon and sub-state areas can be found at QualityInfo.org/projections.