The Texas labor market achieved remarkable growth in November 2025, with both employment figures and the size of the labor force reaching unprecedented levels. The state added 146,300 jobs within the year, surpassing the national job growth rate by 0.4%, according to a report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The release of this data was delayed by over a month due to a federal government shutdown that interrupted data collection in October.
AUSTIN, Texas – The latest report indicates that Texas continues to experience job growth at a pace quicker than the national average, as evidenced by the employment data from November.
Job Growth in Texas
In the broader context of the nation, the unemployment rates remained stable in 26 states over the past year, while 16 states and Washington, D.C. reported increases, and eight states saw a decrease. The national unemployment rate stood at 4.6%, which is 0.4% higher than it was in November 2024.
Texas’s job gains of 146,300 from November 2024 to November 2025 made it the leading state for job growth during this period. The report also highlights that the labor force in Texas has reached a historic high of 15,938,500, with the total number of employed Texans—including self-employed individuals—reaching 15,264,700. Additionally, the non-farm job count rose to 14,321,000 after the addition of 7,300 positions in November 2025.
Governor’s Remarks on Economic Growth
Governor Greg Abbott celebrated these achievements in a statement, emphasizing the strength and potential of the Texas economy. He remarked, “Texas offers boundless opportunities for hardworking Texans and innovative entrepreneurs to thrive. We see proof of that promise as more Texans are working than ever in the history of our great state.” Abbott attributed this growth to the state’s robust economy and skilled workforce, which continue to attract business investments and stimulate job creation across various industries.
Impact of Government Shutdown on Data
The labor force and unemployment statistics are primarily derived from household surveys, while employment data is collected through a survey that analyzes non-farm jobs, including hours worked and earnings by industry. The publication of the November 2025 data was postponed due to disruptions caused by a federal government shutdown, which affected data collection and processing during that period.
In summary, Texas has made significant strides in expanding its labor force and creating job opportunities, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s economic landscape.
