The availability of a well-trained work force, and relatively abundant industrial and office space are key reasons companies choose to relocate or expand their operations in Southeast Florida. The positive factors of a rapid population increase in young, middle-management families, tremendous potential for recruitment and cooperative programs between corporations and institutions are prime considerations for relocation. Boca Raton's two universities continually provide many top-quality job candidates. Many local colleges provide continuing education programs which create a well-qualified work force for all levels of a company's needs.

Strong growth in business services, coupled with corporate expansions, accounted for many of the non-agricultural jobs created in Palm Beach County in 1996. The County's single biggest coup, however, was financial services giant MBNA, which is expected to add 1,000 jobs with the establishment of its 60,000 sq. ft. Southeast Regional Headquarters in Boca Raton. The company recently purchased an additional 54 acres and has plans for more offices, which is expected to create another 1,500 jobs.

Some of the companies that relocated to or significantly expanded in Boca Raton in 1996 include MBNA, FedEx, ADT, Sprint Spectrum, Metritek and Jacobson's. Companies such as NABI, Boca Research, Rexall Sundown and VOC Analytical have all made national headlines for the success they have exhibited within the past year.

The average annual salary per position in Palm Beach County in 1996 was $26,660. The Median family income for Boca Raton was $52,143, and the median household income was $67,254 per year. The unemployment rate is down in the County from 5.2% in February 1996 to 3.5% in February 1997. Florida is also a "Right to Work" state and only about 8% of the work force is unionized.

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