Strong Q3 fueled by growth, resilience, new jobs, major investments, and record travel.
ORLANDO, Fla. — As much of the nation grapples with slowing growth and persistent inflation, Orlando’s economy continues to outperform expectations. The Orlando Economic Partnership’s Q3 2025 Orlando MSA Market Update paints a picture of a region that’s not just holding steady — it’s expanding across multiple sectors, from clean energy and advanced manufacturing to logistics and healthcare innovation.
The new data shows:
- Business revenue climbed 2% year-over-year, rebounding from a decline in Q2.
- 18,000 new jobs were added in the year ending August 2025.
- Industrial vacancy dropped to its lowest level in a year at 7.8%.
- International travel through Orlando International Airport hit an all-time high.
- Unemployment rose slightly to 4.3%, reflecting a more balanced labor market rather than a downturn.
Quarter Highlights: Major Projects Fueling Growth
Orlando’s momentum is anchored by transformative developments:
- Siemens Energy, a global energy technology leader, announced plans to relocate its U.S. headquarters to Lake Nona, supporting nearly 3,000 employees in a modern campus designed for hybrid work.
- Sonoco Products Company expanded in Orange County, adding 26 new jobs.
- Peachstate Hobby Distribution and Coqui Hobby Distribution broke ground on a 116,000-square-foot Sanford facility.
- AMD’s Orlando Design Center opened in Central Florida Research Park, advancing next-generation GPU technology.
- UCF’s Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion debuted in Lake Nona, expanding simulation-based nurse training by 150 graduates annually.
“Orlando’s growth story isn’t about one industry—it’s about resilience and reinvention,” said Neil Hamilton, Vice President of Research and Strategy at the Orlando Economic Partnership. “We’re seeing steady investment, a stronger industrial base, and an innovation economy that continues to attract top global players.”
Despite inflationary pressures and modest cooling in the national job market, Orlando remains one of the top 10 fastest-growing employment centers in the U.S., far outpacing national job growth.
Explore the full report: https://business.orlando.org/l/msa-update/
About the Orlando Economic Partnership
The Orlando Economic Partnership (the OEP) is an economic and community development organization that works to advance Broad-based Prosperity®. Through the power of partnerships, we grow the economy, attract companies that create new jobs, drive investment, improve competitiveness and fuel regional leadership.
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