TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Florida’s impressive economic growth and job creation numbers are fueling Floridians’ consumer confidence, which rose more than five points over the year from November 2014. The University of Florida survey shows consumer sentiment is up to 91.5 points in November 2015, an increase of more than two points from October.

Governor Rick Scott said, “In less than five years, Florida has added nearly one million jobs, the unemployment rate has been cut in more than half, and families have saved their hard-earned money thanks to our work to cut taxes 50 times. This incredible growth has helped to attract new businesses and opportunities to our state, and we will keep working to diversify our economy so Florida can become first for jobs.”

Among the five components measured in Florida’s Consumer Sentiment Index, perception of personal financial situation today compared with one year ago had the highest over the month increase, climbing 6.4 points. Florida’s forecasted retail sales are expected to increase 4.5 percent this holiday season, besting the nation’s expected increase of 3.7 percent, according the Florida Retail Federation.

Department of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Jesse Panuccio said, “Florida’s resurgent economy provides good reasons for high consumer confidence. We are one of the best states in the nation for job growth, and the trend should continue if we keep supporting low taxes and key investments in economic development, infrastructure, and education.”

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