The latest estimates from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) and the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics have indicated a continuous rise in job opportunities in the state of Texas. Reports from January to February 2024 suggest that about 49,000 seasonally adjusted jobs were added statewide. However, unemployment rates in Austin increased to 3.7% during the same period, from 3.5% in the previous month and last year. Despite this, the capital city of the state also witnessed the addition of around 16,000 new positions.

TWC chairman Bryan Danial stated that the Texas workforce was demonstrating comprehensive growth, with jobs being added across most major industries. The majority of new statewide jobs were found in professional and business services (11,900), followed by private education and health services (9,300 jobs), and construction (7,800). Remarkably, Texas’ nonfarm employment rates surpassed those of any other state in the country, presenting a 2.1% increase from February of the previous year to this year. The state’s seasonally adjusted civilian labor force also saw an increase, with 25,000 people added, taking the total to more than 15 million.

In related news, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released a national employment update earlier this month that indicated a rise in the household unemployment rate (3.9% in February). Despite this, nonfarm payroll employment levels increased in job sectors such as health care, government, food services and drinking places, social assistance, and transportation and warehousing.

By gaining knowledge of these labor market statistics, those seeking to navigate situations such as job loss can better understand the unemployment benefits and resources available to them. For instance, those residing in California may seek assistance from the state’s Employment Development Department (EDD). If you are unsure about how to contact EDD, eddcaller.com is a resource designed to help. From how to speak to someone at EDD to information about filing a claim, it aims to make the process less daunting and more accessible.