(Austin) — Job growth in Texas continues to be strong in 2023. According to the latest data from the Texas Workforce Commission, the state’s labor market achieved a new record high as the state’s seasonally adjusted job count reached 14,094,900, which is an increase of 26,800 positions over the month of November.
The report states that the Lone Star State’s employment data set new record high levels in each of the last 26 months and added 407,100 positions since November 2022, ranking No. 1 in the nation in over the year increase of seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs. Texas’ employment growth rate continued to outperform with 3.0 percent annual growth from November 2022 to November 2023—outpacing the nation’s more modest 1.8 percent.
The Texas seasonally adjusted civilian labor force grew over the month by 30,800 people to reach 15,192,900 in November.
This marked the 11th consecutive monthly increase and included the addition of 39,700 Texans employed. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held at 4.1 percent.
“Texas continues to lead the nation and break records for economic growth,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “With more than 26,000 positions added in November, TWC continues to connect job seekers and employers to keep Texas working.”
Statewide, eight of 11 major industries in Texas expanded over the month. Professional and Business Services saw significant growth with 9,900 jobs added while the Construction industry gained 9,200 jobs in November. Another 5,100 positions were added in Private Education and Health Services. Furthermore, six of the 11 major industries set new employment highs in November, including Construction, Financial Activities, Professional and Business Services, Private Education and Health Services, Leisure and Hospitality, and Government.
“Texas continues to outpace the nation in job growth as Texans take advantage of the many options available for their next career opportunity,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “TWC has various programs and services available to provide the right training and tools needed by job seekers to enter into a diverse range of high-demand occupations.”
The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) maintained the lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 2.2 percent in November, followed by the Amarillo MSA at 2.6 percent, and College Station-Bryan at 2.7 percent. The jobless rate for the San Antonio-New Braunfels area is 3.2 percent.
“The Texas labor market has continued to thrive month after month, and continues to lead the nation in many categories,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “As we head into 2024, the future looks bright for Texas employers across the state seeking to expand their business and tap into the state’s growing workforce.”
Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).