Austin, Texas, January 8, 2026
Texas has achieved historic milestones in employment and labor force participation, setting new records for both the workforce size and the number of employed individuals. The state’s labor force has grown to the highest number in its history, reflecting strong economic growth and resilience. Texas has also outpaced national job growth rates, indicating a favorable business climate that continues to attract investments across various industries.
Texas Achieves Record Highs in Employment and Labor Force
Austin, Texas – In November 2025, Texas reached historic milestones in employment and labor force participation, setting new records for the number of Texans working and the size of the state’s labor force.
Record Employment and Labor Force Numbers
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that Texas’ labor force grew to 15,938,500, marking the largest in the state’s history. Additionally, the number of employed Texans, including self-employed individuals, reached 15,264,700, another record high.
Job Growth and Unemployment Rates
Over the year, Texas added 146,300 nonfarm jobs, more than any other state, with an annual job growth rate of 1.0%, surpassing the national rate by 0.4 percentage points. The state’s unemployment rate stood at 4.2%, below the national average of 4.6%.
Economic Context
These achievements reflect the strength and resilience of the Texas economy, which has consistently outpaced national growth rates in recent years. The state’s favorable business climate and skilled workforce continue to attract new investments and foster job creation across various industries.
Key Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Record Labor Force Size | 15,938,500 |
| Record Employment Number | 15,264,700 |
| Annual Job Growth | 146,300 nonfarm jobs |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.2% |
| National Unemployment Rate | 4.6% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current size of Texas’ labor force?
As of November 2025, Texas’ labor force reached a record high of 15,938,500 individuals.
How many jobs did Texas add over the past year?
Texas added 146,300 nonfarm jobs over the year, leading the nation in job creation.
What is the unemployment rate in Texas?
The unemployment rate in Texas is 4.2%, which is below the national average of 4.6%.
How does Texas’ job growth compare to the national rate?
Texas’ annual job growth rate is 1.0%, surpassing the national rate by 0.4 percentage points.
What factors contribute to Texas’ strong employment growth?
Texas’ favorable business climate and skilled workforce continue to attract new investments and foster job creation across various industries.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Cities Shine for Job Seekers: Austin, Plano, Irving, and Grand Prairie
Georgetown TX Emerges as a Top Moving Destination
H-E-B Opens New Store on Culebra Road in San Antonio
Austin’s 2025 Highlights: Key Events and Achievements
Texas Economy Achieves Remarkable Growth
Buc-ee’s Expands to San Marcos with New Travel Center
Austin-San Antonio Corridor Leads in U.S. Job Growth
Microsoft Expands Data Center Operations Near Castroville, Texas
U.S. Stock Indices Reach Record Highs Amid Economic Optimism
U.S. Economy Surges with Encouraging Growth in Q3
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
