Houston and Dallas lead construction job growth

DALLAS, HOUSTON – Houston and Dallas led the nation in the most new construction jobs in December 2012, according the Associated General Contractors of America.

The Houston metropolitan area added the most jobs nationally — 17,600 jobs or a 10 percent increase from December 2011. The Dallas area was second, adding 8,300 jobs or an 8 percent increase.

Across Texas, the construction industry added 35,600 jobs last month for a gain of 6 percent.

Nationally, construction employment grew in 139 of 337 metropolitan areas in December from a year earlier — boosted mainly by growing private-sector demand and a rebounding housing market. Employment fell in 131 states and stayed the same in 65 states.

The Atlanta area saw the most job losses — 4,900 jobs or 5 percent. Jackson, Miss., had the largest percentage loss of jobs — 20 percent or 2,000 jobs.