Texas Adds More than 46,000 Jobs in March

“The hard work of Texas employers—especially the 3.5 million small businesses across the state—is driving our economic strength and robust job creation.”

Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN, Texas – Texas added 46,800 nonfarm jobs in March to reach a total of 14,403,500. Over the year, the state added 117,200 jobs for an annual nonfarm growth rate of 0.8 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.6 percentage points.

Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,916,600 after decreasing by 25,200 over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 82,200 people.

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas remained stable at 4.3 percent.

“The hard work of Texas employers—especially the 3.5 million small businesses across the state—is driving our economic strength and robust job creation,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “By supporting initiatives like the Governor’s Small Business Summits across the state, the Texas Workforce Commission is empowering these vital contributors to our economy and ensuring their continued success.”

The Professional and Business Services industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in March after adding 14,900 jobs. Trade, Transportation, and Utilities added 13,500 jobs over the month while Leisure and Hospitality added 6,800. Construction posted the highest annual growth rate of any major industry for the 20th month in a row at 2.4 percent in March.

“New career opportunities are consistently emerging across the state, and we are committed to helping Texans access them,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “Through apprenticeship initiatives and comprehensive workforce development programs, we are helping people of all abilities and backgrounds—from foster youth to second chance individuals—find paths to meaningful careers.”

The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.0 percent in March. It was followed by the Abilene, College Station-Bryan, and San Angelo MSAs, each of which registered at 3.2 percent.  

“Texas continues to be a powerhouse for job creation, adding more than 117,000 jobs over the year, thanks to the dynamic economy fostered by the Texas Workforce Commission and our many local partners,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “We are committed to bridging the gap between employers' needs and our incredibly skilled workforce, so we can take our talent to the next level.”

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. To access this and more employment data, visit TexasLMI.com.

The Texas Labor Market Information Data for April is scheduled to be released on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).