(The Center Square) – Texas led the U.S. in job growth over the year in August and broke employment records again last month, according to the latest employment data.
Texas reported 14,347,700 total nonfarm jobs in August, adding 17,600 positions over the month and 195,600 jobs over the year.
Texas’ annual nonfarm growth rate was 1.4 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.5 percentage points, according to newly released Texas Workforce Commission data.
Texas set new records for the greatest number of total jobs and largest labor force in state history last month, according to the data.
Texas reached a new record high of 14,347,700 nonfarm jobs last month, more than any other state.
Texas also reached a new record high for having the largest labor force in state history of 15,857,300 last month.
“Texas is America’s jobs leader,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “With the best business climate in the nation and a skilled and growing labor force, Texas is where businesses invest, jobs grow, and families thrive. Texas will continue to cut red tape and invest in businesses large and small to spur the economic growth of communities across our great state.”
Texas’ civilian labor force totaled 15,857,300 last month after adding 8,600 people over the month, reaching a new record high, the TWC said. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force added 169,500 people.
“Texas’ expanding labor force is a testament to our state’s appeal, but it also means we have a responsibility to ensure everyone has access to the education, training, and support services they need to succeed,” TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III said. “TWC is dedicated to removing barriers to employment and creating pathways to opportunity for all Texans.”
The Leisure and Hospitality industry reported the largest over-the-month increase last month, adding 10,900 jobs. Private Education and Health Services added 5,200 jobs; Construction added 1,100. The construction industry grew by 2.2% over the year, the TWC notes, with Texas outperforming the industry’s growth rate nationally by 1.5 percentages points.
“The addition of more than 17,000 jobs in August highlights Texas’ reputation as the best state for doing business,” TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza said. “TWC resources such as Skills Development grants, apprenticeships, and employer tax credits are empowering businesses to create opportunities locally and compete globally.”
Texas’ not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 4.7% was higher than the national unemployment rate of 4.5% last month.
Metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in Texas reporting the highest not seasonally adjusted unemployment rates last month were Eagle Pass 8.9%, Brownsville-Harlingen 7.5% and McAllen-Edinburg-Mission 7.1%. Amarillo, Midland and San Angelo MSAs each reported the lowest not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.6%.
