Central Region Labor Market Information
The Central Region is comprised of 19 counties. 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 2023, per capita personal income of the region was $50,714 and estimated population was 703,053. The average annual wage for all occupations in the Central Region in 2023 was $51,646.
Central Region Workforce Insights
The Central Region of Missouri showcases a vibrant workforce of over 319,000 individuals, contributing significantly to the state’s economic landscape. This diverse labor pool is characterized by a balanced gender distribution, low unemployment rates, and a commitment to educational advancement.
Total Workforce 2023
2023 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 46,200 individuals as of 2023.
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.
Career Grades Overview
The Central Workforce Development Region offers a comprehensive analysis of career opportunities, highlighting the potential for growth and prosperity in various occupations. By evaluating job openings, growth rates, and wages, we provide a clear picture of the region’s economic landscape.
Grade A - $60,928 Average Wage
Grade B - $46,861 Average Wage
Grade C - $37,035 Average Wage
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
Missouri Jobs Report: May 2026 — Employment Grows and Unemployment Holds at 3.8%
Missouri added 3,400 jobs in May 2026 and the unemployment rate held at 3.8 percent, half a point below the national average. Here’s a breakdown of the latest labor market data and what it means for workers and employers across mid-Missouri.
From Two Part-Time Jobs to a Full-Time Nursing Career: Meghan’s Story
Meghan Zahnter was working two part-time jobs when she decided to pursue nursing. Two years later, with support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, she’s a full-time RN at Lake Regional Health Systems.
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.
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.