Southwest Oregon Jobs Projected to Increase 5% by 2034

March 20, 2026

Southwest Oregon’s total employment will grow by 3,860 jobs (5%) between 2024 and 2034, according to projections from the Oregon Employment Department. The projected increase for the region, which includes Coos, Curry, and Douglas counties, is primarily due to modest structural job growth in the economy. In addition, many job openings are expected due to the need to replace workers who leave their occupations. 

In 2024, there were 74,760 jobs in Southwest Oregon. The 5% increase in employment between 2024 and 2034 includes private-sector gains of 3,410 jobs, 400 jobs in government and an additional 50 job gain in self-employed Lane County residents. In comparison, Oregon statewide total employment is expected to grow 6%.

Most Industries Add Jobs

Most major industry sectors are expected to add jobs, the exceptions being natural resources and mining, financial activities, manufacturing, and federal government. 
The private education and health services sector will add the most, gaining 1,740 jobs (16% growth) over the 10-year period. Made up mostly of health services, the growth in the sector is attributed to the aging of the population and longer life expectancies.

Leisure and hospitality is projected to add the second-most jobs and have the third fastest proportional growth. The projected 710 jobs (9% growth) in leisure and hospitality is helped by tourism in the region.

Professional and business services is a large sector expected to add 490 jobs, or 9% over the ten-year period. Management, scientific, and technical consulting (59 jobs, 31% growth), architectural and engineering services (57 jobs, 23% growth), veterinary services (67 jobs, 19%), and employment services (104 jobs, 7% growth) contribute to much of the growth.

At 3,190 jobs, construction is a small industry but has relatively fast growth at 7% (210 jobs). Growth is expected to be especially strong in the specialty trades industry, which includes specific construction-related activities such as site preparation, plumbing, painting, and electrical work.    Government

Projections show relatively modest growth in government (3%). Federal government will have no net growth but includes some additional employment for fire suppression. State government is expected to add 60 jobs (5%). Local government will add 340 jobs (3%), helped by gains in health care which are countered by losses in local education.

All Industries Need Workers

Whether growing or showing a net loss of jobs by 2034, all broad industry sectors will provide employment opportunities. Many job openings will be created by 2034 due to the need to replace workers who retire, leave the labor force for other reasons, or make a major occupational change.

More information on 2023-2034 industry and occupational projections for Oregon and sub-state areas can be found at QualityInfo.org/projections.