Detroit Employment
The number of employed Detroit residents increased steadily from 2014 to 2019, reaching a high of 231,504. Despite nationwide drops in employment caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Detroit has experienced a strong and sustained economic recovery. As of March 2024, 235,275 Detroiters are working, nearly 4,000 more than before the pandemic.
Detroit Unemployment
Prior to March 2020, Detroit had reached a decade-low unemployment rate of 8.9%. The Covid-19 pandemic caused a significant surge, and 21% of Detroiters became unemployed. Detroit’s economy then sharply rebounded, culminating with a record low unemployment rate of 5.1% in April 2023. The unemployment rate has fluctuated for the last year, due in part to Detroit’s growing labor force, and is currently at 7.5%.
Employment Rate of the Population
For two consecutive years, over 90% of Detroit’s labor force is currently employed, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
Employment Rate Takeaway
93% of Detroit residents are currently employed, up from 82% in 2014. This figure surpasses employment rates for Detroiters before the COVID-19 pandemic, which left many residents without jobs.
Poverty Rate of the Population
Detroit’s poverty rate is lower than at any time prior to 2019.
Data: American Community Survey, 1-Year Estimates
Detroit’s poverty rate consistently declined from 2015-2019, but the economic consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic, related government interventions, and Detroit’s economic recovery have resulted in a fluctuating poverty rate in recent years. The most current data, from 2022, reports Detroit’s poverty rate at 33.8%, lower than at any time before 2019.
Poverty Rate Takeaway
Increasing employment among Detroiters is critical to reducing poverty in Detroit. We will need to employ residents to alleviate poverty, while also assisting those who currently employed and in poverty on their path towards a sustainable career.
Education and Employment
Evidence continues to demonstrate that obtaining postsecondary education correlates to improved employment outcomes for Detroiters.
Data: American Community Survey, 2022 1-Year Estimates, Detroiters, Ages 25-64
Education and Employment Takeaway
Census data from 2022 shows that Detroiter who have degrees or credentials beyond high school are more likely to be in the labor force and employed than their peers. Providing educational and training opportunities beyond a high school degree or GED is critical to improving employment outcomes, and thereby increasing economic security and prosperity in Detroit. Initiatives created by the Mayor’s Workforce Development Board are moving the needle on educational attainment for Detroiters.