Austin, Texas, December 16, 2025
Despite facing significant layoffs in major corporations, Texas has reached a historic milestone in its labor market, with the civilian labor force hitting an unprecedented 15,839,400. The state’s nonfarm employment also saw a notable increase, with 28,100 new jobs added recently. This remarkable growth showcases Texas’s economic resilience, even as companies like Chevron and Exxon Mobil make job cuts. The unemployment rate holds steady at 4.1%, highlighting the state’s capability to attract new businesses and maintain job opportunities.
Texas Achieves Record-Breaking Labor Force Amidst Significant Layoffs
Austin, Texas – Despite substantial layoffs in major companies, Texas has achieved unprecedented records in its labor market, with the civilian labor force reaching new highs and job growth continuing its upward trend.
Record Highs in Labor Force and Employment
In recent months, Texas has consistently set new records for its labor market. The civilian labor force reached a peak of 15,839,400 in May 2025, marking the largest in the state’s history. This growth reflects a steady increase in the number of individuals seeking employment in the state. Additionally, the total nonfarm employment reached 14,340,800 in May 2025, with 28,100 jobs added over the month, indicating robust economic activity. Over the year, Texas added 213,300 nonfarm jobs, growing at a rate faster than the national average. The unemployment rate remained steady at 4.1% during this period.
Impact of Layoffs on the Texas Labor Market
Despite these positive trends, significant layoffs have occurred in major companies operating within Texas. For instance, Chevron announced plans to lay off 200 employees in Midland County, a key operational hub in the Permian Basin, with layoffs scheduled to begin on July 15, 2025. Similarly, Exxon Mobil reported nearly 400 job cuts in Texas following its acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources, with reductions planned in Irving and Midland. These layoffs are part of broader corporate strategies to streamline operations and reduce costs.
State’s Resilience Amidst Corporate Restructuring
Despite these corporate restructuring efforts, the Texas labor market has demonstrated resilience. The state’s economy continues to attract new businesses and investments, contributing to the growth in employment opportunities. The Texas Workforce Commission has been actively involved in connecting job seekers with employers, ensuring that the workforce remains engaged and productive.
Conclusion
In summary, while Texas faces challenges due to significant layoffs in major corporations, the state’s labor market continues to thrive, setting new records in both labor force participation and employment. The ongoing economic growth and proactive workforce development strategies contribute to the state’s ability to maintain a strong and resilient labor market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current size of Texas’s civilian labor force?
The civilian labor force in Texas reached a record high of 15,839,400 in May 2025, marking the largest in the state’s history.
How many jobs were added to Texas’s nonfarm employment in May 2025?
Texas added 28,100 nonfarm jobs in May 2025, bringing the total to 14,340,800.
What is the unemployment rate in Texas as of May 2025?
The unemployment rate in Texas remained steady at 4.1% in May 2025.
Which major companies have announced layoffs in Texas recently?
Chevron announced plans to lay off 200 employees in Midland County, with layoffs scheduled to begin on July 15, 2025. Exxon Mobil reported nearly 400 job cuts in Texas following its acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources, with reductions planned in Irving and Midland.
How has the Texas labor market responded to these layoffs?
Despite the layoffs, the Texas labor market has demonstrated resilience, with continued growth in labor force participation and employment. The Texas Workforce Commission has been actively connecting job seekers with employers to maintain a strong workforce.
Key Features of Texas’s Labor Market Performance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Record High Civilian Labor Force | 15,839,400 in May 2025, the largest in Texas’s history. |
| Nonfarm Employment Growth | 28,100 jobs added in May 2025, totaling 14,340,800. |
| Unemployment Rate | Steady at 4.1% in May 2025. |
| Corporate Layoffs | Chevron and Exxon Mobil announced significant layoffs in Texas in 2025. |
| Labor Market Resilience | Continued growth in labor force participation and employment despite corporate restructuring. |
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