Growing Businesses Fuel Jobs for Polk’s Expanding Population

With a 2025 population estimate of 852,878 (U.S. Census), the county is quickly becoming a magnet for both talent and opportunity. This growth brings a major advantage in a larger, more diverse workforce for expanding companies. That’s one reason why Polk, again, ranks ninth in the nation for talent attraction, according to a Lightcast Talent Attraction Scorecard. Since 2022, the number of working-age residents (ages 24 to 65) has grown by nearly 8%, creating a fertile talent environment.

Polk County’s total employment now exceeds 283,000 as of October 2024, reflecting a nearly 12% increase since 2020 (JobsEQ). And with unemployment at 5% as of August 2025 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), there is a healthy pool of potential workers ready to contribute. Polk County can compete on a larger scale as working population availability increases – driving opportunity for local residents.

This strong labor market offers compelling opportunities for new and expanding companies to hire local talent. Yes, a growing population can mean busier roads, restaurants and stores – but that also stimulates a dynamic economy where money circulates locally, and services expand to meet demand…

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