Florida’s economy is thriving with diverse industries, attracting both residents and businesses. Florida’s major industries include healthcare, finance, retail, and telecommunications, each of which provides stable employment opportunities. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Miami or apartments in Orlando, Florida’s economy promises growth and diversity. For those considering a move to the Sunshine State, Florida’s strong industry provides a solid foundation for job security. From professional services to wholesale distribution, Florida’s key sectors drive both local and national economic growth.
Florida Overview: Home Prices, Income, and Employment
Top Employers in Florida
Publix Super Markets: 161,000 employees Walmart: 119,000 employees Walt Disney Company: 82,000 employees Amazon: 59,000 employees Home Depot: 31,600 employees
Florida’s 10 Major Industries
1. Professional employer organizations
Key Companies: ADP (Miami), TriNet (offices throughout Florida), Oasis Outsourcing (West Palm Beach)
Professional employer organizations (PEOs) are essential to Florida’s business ecosystem. These companies provide outsourced HR services such as payroll, benefits, and compliance to small and medium-sized businesses. Leading employers in this sector, such as ADP, TriNet, and Oasis Outsourcing, offer a variety of HR and management roles. Due to Florida’s appeal as a business hub, many companies rely on PEOs to manage their employee needs. The industry supports flexible employment opportunities, making it an attractive option for professionals seeking stability in human resources and business services.
Considering moving to Florida for a PEO job? Consider homes for sale in Miami or West Palm Beach.
2. New car dealership
Key Companies: AutoNation (locations throughout Florida), Off Lease Only (West Palm Beach), Carvana (locations throughout Florida)
Florida’s new car dealership industry is strong, meeting high demand from both residents and tourists. AutoNation, Off Lease Only, and Carvana are major employers offering sales, service, and finance positions. As Florida’s population grows, so does the need for vehicles, spurring employment growth in this industry. According to the National Automobile Dealers Association, Florida ranks among the top five states for dealer revenue, highlighting Florida’s important role in the economy. Job seekers interested in customer service, auto repair, and management may find rewarding careers at these dealerships.
Considering moving to Florida for a job at a car dealership? Consider homes for sale in West Palm Beach or Fort Lauderdale.
3. Wireless carrier
Major companies: No major wireless companies are headquartered in Florida, but many have operations throughout the state.
The wireless communications industry continues to expand with increasing demand for mobile connectivity. Major telecommunications companies such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile hire network maintenance, sales, and customer support employees throughout Florida. This industry plays an important role in modern infrastructures that support both remote work and daily life. For those relocating to the Sunshine State, this sector offers great opportunities, especially in urban hubs like Miami and Orlando.
Considering moving to Florida for a job in the telecommunications field? Consider homes for sale in Miami or Orlando.
4. Healthcare
Key Companies: Baptist Health South Florida (Miami), AdventHealth (Altamonte Springs), Lee Health (Fort Myers)
Florida’s hospitals are important employers and major contributors to the state’s health care industry. Baptist Health South Florida and AdventHealth offer jobs in nursing, administration, and medical technology. Lee Health supports population growth along the Gulf Coast. According to the American Hospital Association, Florida hospitals employ more than 900,000 people across the state. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Sarasota or apartments in Gainesville, the stability of the health care industry makes this state an attractive option.
Are you considering moving to Florida for a career in the medical field? Consider homes for sale in Miami or Fort Myers.
5. Health and medical insurance
Key Companies: Florida Blue (Jacksonville), Sunshine Health (Fort Lauderdale), AvMed (Doral)
The health and medical insurance sector is booming, creating thousands of jobs in claims processing, customer service, and IT. Florida Blue is a leader in this industry, headquartered in Jacksonville and with a strong presence across the state. Sunshine Health and Avmed also provide important services that serve Florida’s diverse population. People relocating to the Sunshine State can expect a strong medical infrastructure and abundant employment opportunities.
Considering moving to Florida for a job in health and medical insurance? Consider homes for sale in Jacksonville or Fort Lauderdale.
6. Commercial banking
Major Companies: BankUnited (Miami Lakes), Seacoast Bank (Stuart), City National Bank (Miami)
Florida’s commercial banking industry supports businesses and residents with financial services and lending solutions. BankUnited and Seacoast Bank employ finance, customer care, and IT professionals. City National Bank strengthens Miami’s position as a financial hub. For those moving to the Sunshine State, a growing financial sector means stability and career advancement in cities like Miami and Jacksonville.
Considering moving to Florida for a job in commercial banking? Consider homes for sale in Miami or Stuart.
7. Public education
Main school districts: Miami-Dade County Public Schools (Miami), Broward County Public Schools (Fort Lauderdale), Hillsborough County Public Schools (Tampa)
Public schools are the cornerstone of Florida’s economy, employing more than 180,000 teachers across the state. The Florida Department of Education oversees schools that prepare students for the workforce and attract families to the state. Due to a nationwide teacher shortage, Florida is offering incentives such as relocation bonuses to educators. Those who move to the Sunshine State for teaching opportunities will find rewarding careers and access to a thriving community.
Considering moving to Florida to work in the automotive industry? Consider homes for sale in Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
8. Supermarkets and grocery stores
Key institutions: Publix (Lakeland), Winn-Dixie (Jacksonville), Sedano’s Supermarkets (Hialeah)
Florida is home to some of the nation’s largest grocery store chains, providing jobs in customer service, logistics, and management. Publix, headquartered in Lakeland, is a major employer, but Winn-Dixie and Sedano’s offer additional opportunities. The supermarket industry is essential to residents, making cities like Miami and Orlando ideal for those looking for a home or apartment near a grocery store.
Considering moving to Florida for a career in education? Consider homes for sale in Lakeland or Jacksonville.
9. Pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and toiletries
Key Companies: Prime Matter Labs (Miami Gardens), AIG Technologies (Pompano Beach), Pure Source (Miami)
The pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry is a major contributor to Florida’s economy, providing employment opportunities in production, quality assurance, and logistics. This field also includes marketing and retail roles. Data from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity highlights consistent job growth in this sector. Moving to Florida to work in this industry guarantees access to expanded career paths and a vibrant lifestyle.
Considering moving to Florida for a career in pharmaceutical or cosmetics? Consider homes for sale in Miami or Pompano Beach.
10. Gasoline and oil
Major Companies: Peoples Gas System (Tampa), Pentacles Corporation (Miami), Nopetro (Tallahassee)
The gasoline and oil industry supports Florida’s transportation and tourism sectors. Jobs in this field include refinery operations, distribution, and retail management. This industry is essential to Florida’s infrastructure, with ports like Port Everglades playing a critical role. People who move to the Sunshine State will benefit from a strong economy supported by job security and energy production.
Are you considering moving to Florida for a job in the gasoline or oil industry? Consider homes for sale in Tampa or Tallahassee.
