Published: 05-16-08
Employers Add 15400 Jobs in April
AUSTIN — The April statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 4.1 percent down from 4.3 percent in March and 4.4 percent in April 2007 once again matching the record low. The 4.1 percent April unemployment rate in Texas remains far below the U.S. unemployment rate of 5.0 percent. Seasonally adjusted nonagricultural employment in Texas grew by 15400 jobs in April.
“Texas continues to outpace national trends with its record low unemployment rate” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Tom Pauken. “Texas employers now have added 262000 jobs in the past 12 months.”
The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) experienced the lowest unemployment rate in the state at 2.4 percent (not seasonally adjusted). The Amarillo and Odessa MSAs were second at 2.8 percent followed by the Lubbock MSA at 3.0 percent.
Financial Activities gained 6900 positions in April which represent more than half the annual job growth of 12700 for that sector. Leisure and Hospitality added another 4200 jobs last month for a total of 41300 positions added in the past 12 months.
“Business in Texas continues to expand with an annual job growth rate of 2.5 percent” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ron Lehman. “Industries like Professional and Business Services and Natural Resources and Mining recorded annual growth rates of 5.0 percent or above.”
Construction increased by 3000 jobs in April for a gain of 23200 jobs over the year. Education and Health Services grew by 2800 positions this month with 40800 jobs added in the past 12 months.
“Texas workers are finding jobs across many industry sectors” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. “Our record low unemployment rate gives job seekers many choices and more chances to find a job.”
