**NYC Construction Employment Still Lags Pre-Pandemic Levels**
New York State remains one of only five states that have not fully recovered from pandemic-related job losses in the construction sector, according to a new report from State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. The findings highlight the ongoing challenges faced by construction businesses in New York City, driven in part by reduced demand for office space.
As of 2024, construction employment in New York City continues to trail pre-pandemic levels by 11.3% compared to 2019. Meanwhile, construction employment outside of the city but within the state has seen a modest increase of 0.8% over the same period.
“Spending on residential construction has rebounded since the pandemic, but nonresidential construction spending, especially in New York City, remains below 2019 levels and could continue to lag in the near future,” DiNapoli said.
He also noted that several external factors may influence the sector’s trajectory. “Federal policy on tariffs and immigration may impact construction costs and the labor pool. There are steps the city could take to facilitate growth, and where appropriate, encourage the development of infrastructure and buildings to foster local economic growth,” DiNapoli added.
While there has been progress in some areas of the construction industry, the report underscores the need for targeted efforts to support broader recovery and future development in New York City’s construction sector.
