As Sheboygan, Wisconsin, navigates economic shifts in 2024, several sectors are showing remarkable resilience and potential for growth. Based on recent employment data and labor trends, the city is positioned to benefit from expansion in healthcare, education, tourism, professional services, and construction. These promising areas reflect a steady economic landscape that continues to create jobs and support local industries.

Education and Health Services: A Steady Climb

The education and health services sector is seeing consistent employment gains, a trend that highlights the demand for high-quality healthcare and educational resources in Sheboygan. Employment data indicates a 3.6% year-over-year increase in this sector as of August 2024, suggesting a continued focus on growing access to healthcare facilities, schools, and training programs. As the city’s population continues to grow, this sector is expected to be a cornerstone of Sheboygan’s future economic stability.

Leisure and Hospitality: Capitalizing on Tourism

Sheboygan’s leisure and hospitality sector reached a peak employment level of 6.3 thousand jobs during the summer season in July 2024. This growth, bolstered by a 1.7% increase in September 2024, points to a thriving tourism industry. The area’s natural beauty, attractions, and events draw visitors year-round, supporting local restaurants, hotels, and recreational businesses. Continued investment in tourism and hospitality is likely to foster more job opportunities, especially as seasonal demands fluctuate throughout the year.

Professional and Business Services: A High-Demand Field

Sheboygan’s professional and business services sector has experienced significant growth throughout 2024, with a peak of 5.6% year-over-year increase during the spring months. This sector, which includes consulting, legal, and technical services, reflects the city’s need for professional expertise to support its businesses. As local companies expand and new firms settle in Sheboygan, the demand for professional and technical support services is expected to drive further job creation in this area.

Construction: Meeting Development Needs

Sheboygan’s construction industry has been stable, with a strong performance in 2024. The sector saw a 4.2% year-over-year growth in April, emphasizing the city’s commitment to infrastructure and development projects. With ongoing public and private projects across Sheboygan, including residential, commercial, and industrial developments, the construction sector remains a vital contributor to the local economy. This trend is set to continue as infrastructure improvements and new housing projects gain momentum.

Supporting Economic Resilience

Sheboygan’s diversified economic base is supporting a healthy job market, with a civilian labor force of nearly 64,000 people as of September 2024. The city’s low unemployment rate, which dropped to 2.2% in September from a peak of 2.8% in June, demonstrates the economic resilience and adaptability of Sheboygan’s workforce. Total nonfarm employment remains strong, with industries like manufacturing, financial activities, and other services also contributing to local job stability.

Sheboygan’s economic landscape is positioned to grow and adapt in the coming years, driven by strategic investments and steady job creation across several key industries. As these sectors expand, they promise to enhance Sheboygan’s reputation as a hub for opportunity and quality of life in Wisconsin, making it a city to watch as it evolves.