Economy

Employment

In 2024 there were 13,000 jobs in Shetland, of which 62% were full-time and 38% part-time.

During 2025 there was:

  • 84.4% of the population in employment, one of the highest rates in the country
  • 1.9% of the population unemployed, one of the lowest rates in the country
  • 1,660 private businesses registered in Shetland, of which 95% were small businesses (0-49 employees)
  • A median gross weekly pay for full time and part time workers of £677, which was higher than the Scottish and UK values