Menu
As businesses and job seekers prepare for 2025, it’s a great time to look back on the key staffing and job market trends that shaped 2024 and to anticipate what lies ahead in the coming year. In this article, we’ll review the highlights of 2024, and share our predictions for the emerging trends in Kansas City that will impact businesses and job seekers in 2025.
In 2024, Kansas City’s job market exhibited notable growth and sector-specific trends, setting the stage for developments in 2025.
From August 2023 to August 2024, the Kansas City metro area experienced a 1.7% growth in nonfarm jobs, surpassing the national average of 1.5% during the same period. This steady increase highlights Kansas City’s appeal as a growing hub for businesses and talent alike.
Unemployment rates have risen nationwide in 2024, but Kansas City continues to outperform the national average. With a 3.4% unemployment rate as of October 2024—significantly lower than the national figure—Kansas City showcases its stability in a challenging labor market.
In 2024, Kansas City’s job market exhibited notable sector-specific trends, reflecting the region’s economic dynamics. Let’s take a deeper look into some of key industries and stats from this past year:
As Kansas City approaches 2025, several key job market trends are expected to shape the region’s employment landscape:
The manufacturing sector is prepared for significant growth for years to come, fueled by investments like the Panasonic EV battery plant in De Soto, which is projected to create up to 4,000 jobs upon completion in 2025. This reflects Kansas City’s increasing role as a manufacturing hub for advanced technologies.
The healthcare sector is expected to expand significantly. Roles such as nurses, medical technicians, and allied health professionals are projected to see heightened demand. Nationwide, the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates healthcare jobs will grow significantly between now and 2033, and Kansas City is expected to align with this trend, driven by regional investments in hospital expansions and telehealth innovations.
The integration of advanced technologies across industries will drive demand for tech-savvy professionals. Roles in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity are projected to grow by 25% annually as businesses prioritize automation and data security. This demand aligns with Kansas City’s emerging reputation as a mid-size tech hub.
Kansas City’s central location continues to make it a logistics powerhouse. The expansion of warehousing, distribution centers, and fulfillment services—especially with the ongoing boom in e-commerce—is expected to generate substantial job opportunities in transportation, inventory management, and warehouse operations.
The trend towards hybrid and remote work arrangements is likely to persist in Kansas City, mirroring national trends. With 52% of global companies embracing hybrid models, employers in the region are expected to adopt flexible work environments to attract and retain top talent while fostering productivity.
Kansas City’s job market in 2025 looks promising, with growth expected in many key industries like healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and technology. Employers may find it harder to hire skilled workers, especially in high-demand areas like healthcare and logistics. For job seekers, there will be plenty of opportunities, but staying flexible and learning new skills will be key as industries evolve with new technology. Stronger connections between employers and workers will be essential to filling gaps and meeting the needs of a changing job market.
Whether you’re a business or a job seeker, Starboard is here to be your trusted partner in the new year. We take the time to understand the needs of both employers and candidates, ensuring the perfect match between talent and opportunity. From part-time and contract roles to full-time positions, we’re committed to creating successful outcomes for everyone involved.
816-659-1544 | [email protected] | 16100 W 116th St, Lenexa, KS 66219