As an expert in the field of employment and diversity, I have had the opportunity to closely examine the employment landscape in Central Oregon. This region, known for its natural beauty and thriving economy, has become a popular destination for tourists and new residents alike. However, when it comes to employment opportunities, there are notable differences between different ethnicities or races in Central Oregon.
The Demographics of Central Oregon
In order to understand the employment landscape in Central Oregon, it's important to first look at the demographics of the region. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Central Oregon is predominantly white, with over 85% of residents identifying as white alone. The next largest ethnic group is Hispanic or Latino, making up around 10% of the population. While these numbers may suggest a lack of diversity in the region, it's worth noting that Central Oregon has seen an increase in racial and ethnic diversity in recent years. In fact, the Hispanic or Latino population has grown by over 50% since 2010.
The State of Employment in Central Oregon
Central Oregon has a strong economy, with a low unemployment rate and a high job growth rate.According to the Oregon Employment Department, the unemployment rate in Deschutes County (which includes Bend) was just 3.4% in 2019, well below the national average. The job growth rate in Deschutes County was also above the national average at 2.8%.However, despite these positive economic indicators, there are still disparities when it comes to employment opportunities for different ethnicities in Central Oregon.
The Wage Gap
One notable difference in employment opportunities between different ethnicities in Central Oregon is the wage gap. According to a report by the Oregon Center for Public Policy, the median hourly wage for white workers in Deschutes County was $20.50 in 2018, while the median hourly wage for Hispanic or Latino workers was just $14.50. This means that Hispanic or Latino workers in Central Oregon earn around 30% less than their white counterparts. This wage gap can be attributed to a number of factors, including education levels, job types, and discrimination.While the report notes that Hispanic or Latino workers in Central Oregon are more likely to have lower levels of education, it also points out that even when comparing workers with similar levels of education, there is still a significant wage gap.
Representation in High-Paying Industries
Another notable difference in employment opportunities between different ethnicities in Central Oregon is the representation in high-paying industries. According to data from the U. Census Bureau, white residents in Central Oregon are more likely to work in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and professional services, which tend to have higher wages. On the other hand, Hispanic or Latino residents are more likely to work in industries such as agriculture, retail, and hospitality, which tend to have lower wages. This disparity can also be attributed to a number of factors, including education levels and discrimination.For example, Hispanic or Latino workers may face barriers to entering certain industries due to language barriers or lack of access to education and training opportunities.
