As of the first quarter of 2017, Nevada has the fastest private sector job growth in the United States at 3.6 percent. The state has added 40,000 jobs to the first quarter of 2016. Governor Brian Sandoval says he’s pleased to see the progress the Silver State has made in rebounding from the recession, and that moving to first place in job growth nationwide is a testament to the tremendous resolve of our citizens and businesses and the dedication everyone has shown in putting Nevada on top once again. Prior to the recession, the state led the country in job growth at 6.4 and was the hardest hit during the recession with a -10.1 growth rate in 2009. Nevada leads the way in job growth ahead of Idaho, Florida, Utah and Georgia.