Central Region Labor Market Information
The Central Region is comprised of 19 counties in the center of Missouri. In addition to the state capital, Jefferson City, the region also includes the cities of Columbia and Rolla, which are home to University of Missouri campuses. In 2024, the region’s workforce had more than 323,300 employees, making up 10.7 percent of Missouri’s employment. The regional average unemployment rate was 3.5 percent, below the state rate of 3.7 percent and the national rate of 4.0 percent. Health Care and Social Assistance was the largest industry sector, with over 47,000 jobs.
Central Region Workforce Insights
The Central Region of Missouri showcases a vibrant workforce of more than 323,300 individuals, making up 10.7 percent of the state’s employment. This diverse labor pool is characterized by a balanced gender distribution, low unemployment, and a commitment to educational advancement.
Total Workforce 2024
2024 Regional Average Unemployment Rate
55 & Older Workforce Age
Central Region Employment Statistics
The Central Region of Missouri leads with a robust healthcare sector, employing over 47,000 individuals as of 2024.
Healthcare Industry Growth
Retail Trade Employment
Educational Services Expansion
Accommodation and Food Services Increase
Central Region Real Time Labor Market Summary
Real Time Job Summary Dashboard
This analysis uses data from the Lightcast™ tool, which aggregates job postings from over 35,000 sources, including job boards, newspapers, and employer websites. The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) utilizes this data to create reports on the state and regional labor markets. While it provides an overview of hiring activity and labor demand, it excludes job openings filled through other networks.
Projections & Demographics
2022-2032 Occupation Projections
The Central Region Occupational Projections 2022-2032 offers detailed data on employment trends, including wage projections, annual job openings, and growth rates categorized by skill levels (NOW, NEXT, LATER) for various occupations.
WIOA County Demographics
The WIOA County Demographics for the Central Region provide detailed insights into workforce characteristics, including population, labor force participation, and educational attainment, tailored for workforce planning under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Central Region News
Hire a Veteran Day Brings Veterans and Employers Together at the Missouri State Capitol
Veterans, employers, and workforce partners gathered at the Missouri State Capitol on Friday, July 24, for Hire a Veteran Day. Missouri Job Center staff from Columbia and Sedalia connected attendees with employment opportunities, career resources, and services designed to support veterans in their next career.
Fast Track Incentive Grant Application Now Open for the 2026-2027 Academic Year
Missouri adults returning to school have a new opportunity to make training affordable. The Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant application is now open for the 2026-2027 academic year, covering tuition, fees, and apprenticeship costs for eligible students pursuing careers in high-demand industries.
The Hardest Words in the Room
Every day, people walk through the doors of Central Region Job Centers and do one of the hardest things a person can do — they ask for help. So why is it so hard for the rest of us to do the same?
Tune into the podcast
The Workforce Link Podcast with Sundi Jo Graham
The Workforce Link Podcast offers forward thinking conversations for the workforce, linking employers and job seekers to a brighter tomorrow.
Hosted by Sundi Jo Graham from the Central Workforce Development Board, The Workforce Link covers job searching, resume and interview tips, leadership, personal development, and features interviews with industry leaders from the private and public sectors.
Episode 83: How to Make a Great Impression in Your First 90 Days on the Job
You got the job — now what? The first 90 days on a new job are more important than most people realize. Tune in to Episode 83 of The Workforce Link Podcast to find out how to make a great impression, build the right relationships, and set yourself up for long-term success from day one.