Philadelphia's Labor Force Participation Ranks 96th
Among the Nation’s Largest 100 Cities.*
Why does the status and composition of Philadelphia’s workforce matter? How does it affect the city’s current economic and social climates, and what effects will it have on our future? Learn about the many ways Philadelphia’s education and skills deficit impacts our every day life and what you can do to help.
Economy & Employment
How do we reduce unemployment and increase economic participation?
How do we attract more employers and improve economic conditions throughout the city? The short answer...develop our workforce.
Learn more ›
Schools & Education
What is the average education level of Philadelphians? How does that level match up to what’s required for work? How do we prepare more people for meaningful employment? Learn more ›
Taxes & Living
How can we afford to lower taxes and invest in city improvements?
Broadening our wage base is the first step. Learn more ›
Communities & Safety
Violence is skyrocketing. Neighborhoods are struggling. How are violence and joblessness interrelated? How can improving the skills and qualifications of our residents improve the city for all? Learn more ›
How to Help
What can we do to address these issues as business and civic leaders, as educators and parents, and as citizens? Learn more ›
* Philadelphia ranking is based on the 2000 Census, as analyzed by the Brookings Institution Metropolitan Policy Program.
Data & Publications
It could go either way.
Read A Tale of Two Cities — a report portraying Philadelphia’s human capital challenge as latent economic opportunity.
» Download the report
» Spanish version
The Roundtable
Voice your opinion about the issues and help us develop solutions to Philadelphia's current workforce challenges.
» Join the discussion