The Department of Commerce said the Charlotte region increased non-farm jobs by 3.1 percent in the past year, the highest in the state.

The usual growth areas did well. Education and health added 3,600 jobs, up 4 percent. Professional and business services added 4,900 jobs, up 3.5 percent. Leisure and hospitality was the big winner, adding 8,300 jobs, a 10 percent jump.

Thursday, economist John Connaughton talked to Mecklenburg County commissioners about jobs.

"This is a growth area. People are traveling more for business and pleasure," said Connaughton.

The numbers don't surprise Genie Hufham, who gives guided tours of Charlotte. She said recent big events like the DNC were a game changer.

"I think people love coming to Charlotte now because we are on the map. They did not know  it was a great place to visit," Hufham said.

Hufham plans to hire four new workers this year.

Job diversity has helped Charlotte recover from the recession more quickly.

Connaughton said the state and country have gained back only half the jobs lost in the recession, but Charlotte has gained back three quarters.