BATON ROUGE — Louisiana’s economy showed solid momentum in the second quarter of 2025, surpassing two million non-farm jobs for only the second time in state history, according to the latest Quarter 2 Economic Data Report released by Leaders for a Better Louisiana (Better Louisiana). Every major metro region in the state posted job growth, with Slidell and Hammond leading the way.
Healthcare and manufacturing emerged as the top-performing sectors, both experiencing significant job gains. Healthcare alone added nearly 6,000 jobs over the past year, while manufacturing in the state now ranks in the top 20 nationally for growth.
“Crossing the 2 million jobs threshold isn’t just symbolic—it’s a signal that our statewide efforts to grow diverse, resilient industries are gaining real traction,” said Better Louisiana CEO Adam Knapp. “We’re particularly encouraged to see growth, and in sectors like healthcare and manufacturing, which create lasting, high-quality jobs.”
Retail sales also rose by 2% year-over-year, even with 0.55% increase in the state sales tax that took effect in January after the November Tax Reform Special Session. Additionally, public higher education enrollment grew 3.5%, with some institutions such as LSU-Alexandria and LSU-Shreveport seeing double-digit gains, largely driven by the expansion of online programs.
While Louisiana still trails many Southern states in overall job growth since 2019, the state has posted 51 consecutive months of over-the-year job gains, signaling consistent resilience during global trade/ tariff changes.
“From Lake Charles to Monroe, our communities are rebounding and adapting in exciting ways,” said Better Louisiana Director of Policy Barry Erwin. “This data helps tell a broader story of long-term opportunity for Louisianans across the map.”
The report also highlights population growth in key areas along the I-10 corridor, while also reporting on changes in the workforce, with and consistent demand in fields such as nursing, retail management, and logistics. Initial unemployment claims declined 5% year-over-year, reflecting continued labor market tightening. For more information or to download the full report, visit www.betterla.org/reports.
About Leaders for a Better Louisiana
Leaders for a Better Louisiana (Better Louisiana) is a newly formed nonprofit organization created through the merger of Committee of 100 (C100) and Council for a Better Louisiana (CABL). Its purpose is to drive positive, transformative change by advocating for data-driven policies, fostering economic development, and empowering leaders across the state. Better Louisiana is dedicated to unlocking Louisiana’s potential. For more information, visit www.betterla.org.