Texas job growth reaches record 14.4 million nonfarm positions

Texas reaches a new milestone

Texas reached a major milestone by setting a new record of 14.4 million nonfarm jobs in May. The latest report showed that employers continued to add new positions across the state. That steady hiring helped Texas stand out from much of the rest of the country. Many workers are finding fresh opportunities as businesses continue to expand.

The state added 17,800 nonfarm jobs during May alone. Those gains pushed total employment to another all-time high. Strong hiring reflects continued confidence from many Texas employers. The latest numbers show the state’s economy is still moving forward.

Job growth beats the nation

Texas continued growing faster than the national average over the past year. The state posted a yearly job growth rate of 0.7%. That was more than double the national growth rate of 0.3%. The numbers highlight Texas as one of the stronger job markets in the country.

Around 98,000 jobs were added across Texas during the past year. Businesses kept hiring even as growth slowed in other parts of the economy. Many industries helped support the state’s steady progress. The latest report shows that Texas continues to build on its strong employment record.

Unemployment stays steady

Texas kept its unemployment rate unchanged at 4.3% during May. Holding steady can be a positive sign in a growing economy. It suggests employers are still hiring while many people remain employed. Stable numbers also give businesses more confidence when planning ahead.

The report showed no sudden changes in the labor market. Workers continued finding jobs across different industries. Employers also benefited from a large pool of available workers. That balance helped keep employment conditions steady across the state.

Labor force keeps growing

Texas also saw more people joining its civilian labor force in May. Nearly 15.9 million people were part of the state’s workforce. The labor force increased by about 6,800 people during the month. That growth shows more Texans are looking for work or already have jobs.

Compared with one year ago, the labor force grew by 43,500 people. More workers can help businesses meet hiring needs. A larger workforce also supports future economic growth. Strong participation remains an important part of Texas’s economy.

Millions are working

More than 15.2 million Texans were working during May. That total includes employees and self-employed workers. The large number reflects a broad and active workforce across the state. Many industries continue creating opportunities for skilled workers.

Employment gains help families earn income and support local communities. Businesses also benefit from having more people available to fill jobs. Continued hiring often encourages additional investment across the state. Strong employment numbers remain an important economic signal.

Fun fact: Texas has one of the largest civilian workforces in the United States, with over 15 million people employed or actively working.

Midland leads the way

Among Texas metro areas, Midland reported the state’s lowest unemployment rate. The Midland metropolitan area posted an unemployment rate of 3.1% in May. That made it one of the strongest local job markets in Texas. Employers there continued to support hiring activity.

Abilene and San Angelo followed closely behind with unemployment rates of 3.4%. These communities also showed healthy labor market conditions. Lower unemployment often reflects strong local business activity. Each area plays a role in Texas’s growing economy.

Fun fact: Midland’s economy is strongly influenced by the energy sector, especially oil and gas production in the Permian Basin region.

$7 million boosts workforce training

Texas leaders also highlighted investments in workforce development programs. More than $7 million in Texas Talent Connection grants were recently awarded. The funding supports 27 job-training and workforce programs across the state. These efforts aim to prepare people for future careers.

Training programs help workers build new skills for changing industries. Employers also benefit from a stronger and better-prepared workforce. Better training can create more career opportunities over time. State leaders see workforce development as a key part of future growth.

Leaders praise the results

Governor Greg Abbott welcomed the latest employment report with optimism. He said Texas continues to set new records while helping drive the nation’s economy. The record number of jobs was one of the report’s biggest highlights. State leaders pointed to steady hiring as a sign of continued economic strength.

Abbott also noted that Texas outpaced the national job growth rate over the past year. He said businesses continue choosing Texas because of its strong economy. Many employers are expanding and creating new positions. State officials believe those efforts will keep supporting future job growth.

Employers keep hiring

Texas Workforce Commission Chairman Joe Esparza praised employers for continuing to create new opportunities. He said the addition of more than 17,000 jobs in May reflects the hard work of businesses across the state. Many companies are still looking for skilled workers to fill open positions.

Esparza also highlighted the value of Texas workers. He said a skilled workforce helps businesses grow and succeed. Employers and workers continue supporting each other through steady hiring. That partnership remains an important part of the state’s economy.

Business investment grows

Texas continues attracting companies that want to invest and expand. New business projects often create more jobs and strengthen local economies. State leaders believe these investments will support employment for years to come. Growing businesses also bring new opportunities for workers and communities.

Governor Abbott recently noted that Texas received its 13th Gold Shovel Award. The award recognizes success in attracting major business investment projects. Those projects are expected to create additional jobs across the state. Continued investment remains a key part of Texas’s economic strategy.

Numbers can change

Employment reports give an important snapshot of the job market each month. They help businesses, workers, and policymakers understand hiring trends. The numbers are carefully collected and reviewed before release. Even so, they may be updated as more information becomes available.

The Texas Workforce Commission works with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to prepare these estimates. Revised reports help improve accuracy over time. Updates are a normal part of employment reporting. They provide the clearest picture of the state’s labor market.

What it means for Texans

Strong job growth can create more choices for people looking for work. Expanding businesses often need workers with different skills and experience. That can benefit both first-time job seekers and experienced professionals. Families may also feel more confident when employment remains steady.

Communities can benefit when more people work and earn income. Local businesses often see increased customer activity during healthy job markets. Continued hiring also supports long-term economic stability. The latest report offers encouraging signs for many Texans.

If you’re curious about how big companies moving into Texas are shaping new job opportunities, explore how corporate migration trends are strengthening Texas’ economy and driving growth across the state.

Looking toward the future

Texas enters the coming months with record employment and continued hiring momentum. State leaders hope workforce programs and business investments will continue to support growth. Employers will continue watching economic conditions as they plan for future hiring.

Future employment reports will reveal how these trends continue. Strong workforce participation and business investment remain key priorities. Texas has started the year with positive momentum, giving workers, employers, and communities encouraging signs for the months ahead.

Want to understand how support systems are helping workers during job changes? See how Texas is speeding up unemployment checks for workers who lost their jobs and what it means for families across the state.

What do you think about Texas continuing to show strong job growth? Do you see this trend lasting through the year? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to leave a like.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.

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