Western US: High Wildfire Risk Areas See Rapid Job Growth
The Western US is witnessing a concerning trend: areas with the highest wildfire risk are also experiencing significant job growth. Six hot spots, including Southern California, Denver-Boulder, and Central Utah, face this dual threat. These regions, despite their hazards, are attracting jobs at a faster pace than the regional average.
Areas of very high wildfire hazard have seen a remarkable 103 percent job growth since 1990, reaching approximately 1.7 million jobs in 2020. California, with its Mediterranean and temperate forest climates, accounts for 60 percent of these jobs. Despite slightly lower wages in these areas, the Southern California hot spot bucks the trend.
The six U.S. West regions with the highest shares of jobs in very high wildfire risk include parts of California, Oregon, Washington, and the broader Southern and Southwestern states. These regions, characterized by elevated wildfire dangers, are drawing more jobs than ever before. The job growth in these areas outpaces the regional job growth rate, indicating a shift in employment patterns towards high-risk areas.
The Western US is grappling with a paradox: areas most at risk from wildfires are also experiencing significant job growth. With approximately 1.7 million jobs now in these high-risk areas, and California accounting for the majority, it's crucial for policymakers and businesses to consider the implications of this trend. As wildfire seasons become more severe, understanding and mitigating these risks will be paramount for both workers and employers.
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