The North Carolina Department of Commerce reported on April 8 that recent employment data revisions by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics show a widespread slowdown in the state’s labor market. The updated figures reveal that most industry sectors and metro areas experienced downward adjustments, with significant impacts noted in Western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene.
The revised data is important because it affects how policymakers, employers, and jobseekers understand economic trends and make decisions. The annual updates often correct preliminary estimates, offering a more accurate picture of job growth or decline across the state.
According to the Labor & Economic Analysis Division (LEAD) of the department, preliminary employment estimates had suggested accelerating growth in 2025, with job growth rates nearing 2%. However, “the revised data published today show this apparent acceleration to be a mirage, with growth rates in fact remaining below 1% throughout the year.” Sector-level analysis indicated upward revisions only for Private Education & Health Services as a source of net new jobs. In contrast, Manufacturing saw increased losses after downward revisions. Professional & Business Services also faced negative adjustments—growth was nearly flat over the year—and nine out of eleven major sectors had negative changes overall.
Geographically, nine out of fifteen metro areas saw slower job growth than previously estimated. The Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia area was notably affected; its annual employment increase dropped from an initial estimate of 2.7% to just 1.2%, marking one of its lowest non-recessionary growth rates on record.
The Asheville region continues to struggle post-Hurricane Helene. Revised figures confirm larger-than-expected losses: “Total nonfarm employment in the Asheville area plummeted nearly 9% in October 2024,” compared to earlier estimates around 3%. Although there were early signs of recovery by October 2025, “employment in the Asheville area remained around 3% below its pre-hurricane level as of December 2025,” indicating ongoing challenges for Western North Carolina’s economic recovery.
LEAD officials emphasized that these annual updates are meant not only to inform readers about current labor trends but also to encourage caution when interpreting preliminary data releases. They recommend consulting higher-quality sources like the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), which although delayed by several months, provides more reliable information than monthly survey-based reports.
For further questions or requests related to these findings or economic analysis services offered by LEAD at NC Department of Commerce, Meihui Bodane serves as Assistant Secretary for Policy, Research and Strategy.
