Total population in Wyoming is expected to increase less than 2,200 persons per year, with an annual growth rate of approximately 0.5 percent. However, net out-migration is reduced to 700 persons in 1999, and averages approximately 300 each year for the remainder of the forecast period. Labor Force Labor supply is based upon the decisions individuals make about whether or not to participate in the labor force, that is whether or not to look for paid employment. In addition, population growth and migration impact the labor supply. People decide if they wish to seek work in the local market, move elsewhere for better opportunities, or to not actively seek work.
Labor force is the sum of the number of employed and unemployed persons.
Labor force levels are expected to rise from an estimated 260,870 in 1999 to a projected 280,530 in 2008. This represents an increase of 19,660 individuals who are either working, or available and looking for work. First, Wyoming's population is projected to increase by 4.3 percent or 20,830 people by 2008. Second, due to increased labor force participation by women, overall labor force participation will increase. Labor force participation is defined as the percentage of the working-age population employed or looking for work.