Mapped: The Most Common Job in Each U.S. State in 2024
As the job market in the United States continues to evolve, the occupations that dominate each state provide insight into regional economic trends. In 2024, a surprising number of states share a focus on the same types of jobs, underscoring the persistence of certain industries despite technological advancements and economic shifts. From fast food workers in southern states to home health aides in the west, these trends highlight the workforce dynamics and provide a snapshot of labor across the nation.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) released in May 2024, fast food workers were the most common occupation in 15 states. This trend points to the dominant service sector, particularly in regions with booming tourism industries, such as the Mountain West. Fast food chains are crucial employers in these areas, and despite challenges such as automation, they continue to serve as a backbone for many local economies.
In addition to fast food, retail salespersons and cashiers remain a significant portion of the workforce in 10 states, a trend that echoes the enduring importance of brick-and-mortar stores. While the rise of e-commerce has changed the retail landscape, traditional stores in suburban and rural areas still employ large numbers of workers. This trend is particularly prevalent in states with major shopping malls and big-box stores, where retail workers are crucial to day-to-day operations.
Another prominent occupation is that of home health aides, which tops the list in 10 states, especially those with large aging populations. In California, the state with the highest number of home health aides, the role is critical in providing in-home care to elderly individuals. These jobs typically offer lower wages than hospital-based nursing but require minimal barriers to entry, making them accessible stepping stones for those entering the healthcare field.
Operations managers and specialists are the most common job in 10 other states, reflecting the growing demand for leadership roles in industries like logistics, transportation, and business management. As supply chains become more complex, the need for skilled professionals to manage operations across the country has risen, especially in states with diverse industrial activities.
Notably, logistics managers and specialists lead in states like Nevada and Michigan, highlighting the importance of supply chain roles in these areas. These roles are integral to the functioning of industries that rely on efficient movement of goods, which is particularly important in states with strong manufacturing or transportation sectors.
Across the United States, the labor market is showing clear regional patterns based on local economic needs. The South, for example, stands out for its service-oriented jobs, while the Mountain West is dominated by fast food chains, driven by tourism and a large transient workforce. On the other hand, the rise of home health aides in states with aging populations like California demonstrates the demographic shifts that are shaping employment opportunities.
Despite the growing influence of automation, the customer-facing nature of these roles ensures their persistence. For instance, although automation and self-checkout options have reduced the number of cashiers in some areas, the continued demand for in-person customer service ensures that retail sales roles remain prevalent in many states.
The rise of home health aides is particularly significant in an era where the aging baby boomer generation is leading to increased demand for healthcare services. With minimal educational requirements compared to hospital-based nursing roles, home health aides are in high demand, particularly in areas where elderly populations are growing rapidly.
In addition to the service sector, higher-skill states are seeing a rise in management roles, which often replace service jobs at the top of the rankings. These states have economies that require higher levels of education and specialization, leading to a focus on operations management and similar positions.
One noteworthy point is the fact that some jobs are holding strong despite challenges posed by automation and other technological advancements. For example, the retail sector, while impacted by online shopping, remains a major employer. It’s a testament to the resilience of certain industries and the ongoing need for human interaction, especially in customer service roles.
For job seekers, these trends provide a useful perspective on where the job market is headed. While some industries are shrinking, others are booming, and understanding the regional nuances of employment trends can help guide career decisions. Additionally, as automation continues to reshape the workforce, industries that emphasize human interaction, such as healthcare and customer service, will continue to thrive.
The data from this survey underscores the diversity of the U.S. job market. Fast food workers, retail salespeople, home health aides, and operations managers are filling the most positions across the country, but the specific job that dominates varies by state. As automation changes the landscape, jobs that require human empathy and interaction are likely to remain important, particularly in healthcare and retail.
As we move further into 2025, the future of the U.S. workforce will be shaped by these ongoing trends. Fast food, retail, and healthcare roles may continue to dominate in many states, with regional variations that reflect local economic conditions and demographic shifts. For those entering the job market, understanding these trends will be crucial in navigating the future of work.
For graduates entering the workforce in 2025, it’s important to consider both the opportunities and challenges of these prevalent occupations. Fast food and retail may not be glamorous, but they remain essential to the economy, offering a stable career path for many. At the same time, home health aides and operations managers are gaining prominence as the demand for healthcare services and efficient supply chains grows. The job market is evolving, and those who can adapt to these changes will be best positioned for long-term success.