Service sector employment in North Jersey and the greater New York City metropolitan area declined for the seventh straight month, with nearly 4,000 jobs lost in the state so far this year, according to data released March 17 by the New York Federal Reserve.
The figures focus on service firms—primarily white collar jobs—across North Jersey, New York City, and southwestern Connecticut. The total number of service sector employees in these regions has reached its lowest point since 2021, a period marked by recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and related business restrictions.
Will Irving, an economics researcher at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, said that when the poll was conducted from March 2 to March 9, “many probably were not at that time yet factoring in the full impact of a longer and broader conflict — so the expectation of moderate improvement over the next six months could prove optimistic.” Irving referred to the Iran War’s early stages during that period and noted its potential effects on gas prices had not yet been fully considered.
The Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy is part of Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey according to its official website. The school focuses on fostering just, socially inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and healthy communities at local, national, and global levels according to its official website.
The school has earned national recognition for its programs. Its graduate urban planning program is ranked third nationally while its undergraduate public health program holds fourth place according to its official website. Stuart Shapiro became dean of the school in 2023 according to its official website.
In addition to academic achievements, the Bloustein School advances social impact through research centers focused on community development, transportation, health, workforce development, and energy policy according to its official website. The school also recognizes distinguished alumni through a Hall of Fame established in 2013 and annual achievement awards dating back to 1994 according to its official website.
As economic conditions continue to evolve amid ongoing global conflicts and shifting market trends, observers will be watching closely how these factors influence job prospects across North Jersey’s white collar sectors.