NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Bahamas’ unemployment rate climbed to 10.8 percent in January 2025, up from 8.7 percent recorded in October 2024, according to the latest Labour Force Survey released by the Bahamas National Statistical Institute (BNSI).
The survey revealed that of the 240,650 people in the labour force, 214,725 were employed while 25,925 were unemployed. Women made up a slight majority of the unemployed at 51.3 percent. Youth unemployment remained a persistent concern, standing at 20.9 percent for individuals aged 15 to 24.
The data highlighted ongoing gender disparities. Men continued to participate in the labour force at a higher rate (80.4 percent) compared to women (72 percent). Despite this, women were more likely to attain degrees, outnumbering men nearly two to one. Conversely, men were more likely to have no qualifications, with 28 percent reporting none versus 17 percent of women.
Yet, women were disproportionately affected by joblessness across several age groups, particularly between ages 20 and 54.
The largest employer remained the “Community, Social & Personal Services” sector, which accounted for 37 percent of the workforce with 78,375 employees. The “Hotels and Restaurants” sector followed, employing 41,260 people.
By occupation, service workers and shop market sales workers were the largest group, employing 57,685 people — more than a quarter of the workforce. Professional, science, and engineering professionals formed the second-largest group with 46,835 workers.
Underemployment also remained a challenge, with 65,225 individuals working part-time but seeking additional hours.
Outside the labour force, 106,480 Bahamians were counted, including 25,520 youth aged 15 to 24. Of that group, 3,720 individuals were considered part of the “potential labour force” — available for work but not actively seeking jobs.
The BNSI noted that the figures underscore not only the economy’s continued reliance on key industries but also the persistent gaps in employment opportunities for women and young people.
