Published: 07-18-08
Texas Unemployment Rate Falls Slightly to 4.4 Percent
AUSTIN — Texas’ seasonally adjusted nonagricultural employment grew by 47700 jobs in June. Texas employers now have added 245000 jobs in the past 12 months for an annual job growth rate of 2.4 percent compared with a flat annual job growth rate nationally.
The Texas unemployment rate fell slightly to 4.4 percent in June from 4.5 percent in May up from 4.3 percent in June 2007. The U.S. seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained unchanged at 5.5 percent in June up from 4.6 percent a year ago.
“We remain cautiously optimistic as Texas continues to add jobs despite slowing national trends” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Tom Pauken. “It is encouraging to note job gains are broad-based across nearly all industries from construction to financial services to leisure and hospitality.”
The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) experienced the lowest unemployment rate in the state at 3.1 percent (not seasonally adjusted). The Amarillo MSA was second at 3.6 percent followed by the Odessa MSA at 3.7 percent.
Professional and Business Services added 10700 jobs in June for an industry gain of 66800 positions in the past year. Trade Transportation and Utilities tripled the five- and 10-year averages for growth adding 8400 jobs in June. In the past 12 months the industry has gained 42900 positions.
“Texas employers continue to show strong performance countering tough economic conditions on the national front” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ron Lehman. “The addition of nearly 48000 jobs in June is the second largest monthly job gain since July 2005.”
For the 17th consecutive month Education and Health Services saw gains increasing by 7000 jobs in June with 38500 positions added over the year. Leisure and Hospitality gained 4400 jobs this month with 38700 positions added since June 2007.
“Texas still offers good prospects for those seeking work particularly in the many industries with positive job growth” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton.
Strong growth rates in several goods-producing sectors included Natural Resources and Mining and Construction at 6.8 percent and 3.4 percent respectively. In June Construction gained 2200 jobs and Natural Resources and Mining increased by 1600 positions.
