Pennsylvania identified as one of the lowest-ranking states for job opportunities, according to a recent report.

A recent report by WalletHub highlights that job seekers in Pennsylvania face significant challenges, placing the state among the lowest in the nation regarding employment opportunities. The analysis ranks Pennsylvania 44th overall for job prospects, with only a handful of states, including North Carolina and West Virginia, faring worse.

The WalletHub report investigates various factors influencing job availability and security across the United States. Among the key issues noted for Pennsylvania are its low job security and relatively weak employee protections. Essential categories considered in the analysis include state-mandated paid sick leave, equal pay, and specific safeguards for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. These factors contribute to the state’s attractiveness—or lack thereof—when it comes to employment.

Furthermore, Pennsylvania’s income tax burden, particularly for low- and middle-income earners, exacerbates the challenges faced by workers. The state currently does not offer a tax credit on earned income, although proposed legislation aims to change this situation. This lack of financial relief is seen as a significant downside for job seekers.

The report utilizes data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and various employment-related platforms like Indeed to evaluate the job market across 34 different metrics. These metrics encompass unemployment rates, job growth, worker protections, median annual income, and even commute times, providing a comprehensive look at the factors influencing job security in each state.

Compared to last year’s evaluation, Pennsylvania’s job market ranking has seen a notable decline, dropping from 10th to 29th place. This shift is attributed to rising unemployment and underemployment rates, which presently stand at 6.6%. Despite having unemployment rates that have remained below the national average, recent trends indicate a slight uptick in these figures, suggesting ongoing challenges in job retention.

On a more positive note, Pennsylvania does exhibit certain strengths in its labor market. For instance, a higher proportion of employees in the state are covered by private health insurance relative to other regions. Additionally, the state has a lower percentage of discouraged workers—those not counted in traditional unemployment metrics—indicating a somewhat resilient job-seeking population. The state’s shared-work program also provides a safety net for employers facing economic downturns by allowing them to reduce hours for employees without resorting to layoffs.

Overall, the WalletHub report underscores substantial obstacles for employment in Pennsylvania, accentuating the need for reforms and initiatives aimed at enhancing job security and worker protections, thus fostering a more favorable environment for both employees and employers alike.