Texas Labor Force Surpasses 15.3 Million, Reaches Record High in June
Lisa Valadez | 7/19/2024, 9:42 a.m.
Texas' civilian labor force reached a record high in June, marking the 6th consecutive month of growth. After adding 49,100 people, the adjusted labor force hit 15,311,500.
The adjusted unemployment rate was 4.0 percent, 0.1 points below the national rate.
Total nonfarm employment, estimated independently, decreased by 1,200 jobs to 14,188,800 in June. However, Texas’ nonfarm job count grew by 267,400 since June 2023, a 1.9 percent annual growth rate, outpacing the nation by 0.2 points.
“While there was a slight decrease in employment, the civilian labor force showed strong growth last month, adding nearly 50,000 Texans,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “With an unemployment rate below the national figure and an increasing labor force participation rate, we see a strong Texas economy and job opportunities for many Texans.”
Construction grew by 4.4 percent over the year, adding 5,100 jobs in June. Private Education and Health Services added 3,900 positions, and Manufacturing added 2,500 jobs.
“Our civilian labor force of 15.3 million people in Texas continues to prosper and break records each month,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “TWC and our workforce boards offer guidance and training to help Texans find job opportunities and pursue rewarding career paths.”
The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs at 2.9 percent, followed by the Amarillo MSA at 3.4 percent, and College Station-Bryan MSA at 3.7 percent.
“Texas employers are expanding thousands of job opportunities in the construction, private education and health, and manufacturing industries,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “With strong year-over-year growth in these sectors, I encourage Texans to consider training for in-demand occupations in their communities.”
Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. All estimates are subject to revision. For more data, visit TexasLMI.com.