WASHINGTON — Unemployment rates were largely unchanged across the U.S. in February, pointing to a relatively stable labor market despite some signs of softening. The national jobless rate held at 4.4%, slightly higher than a year earlier, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Only one state reported a notable monthly change in its unemployment rate, while the remaining states and the District of Columbia saw little movement. Over the past year, jobless rates increased in 13 states and declined in just two, reflecting uneven labor market conditions nationwide.
Construction employment increased in 30 states and Washington, D.C., between February 2025 and February 2026, while 18 states shed jobs and two were unchanged. Texas added the most construction jobs (24,000 jobs or 2.7%), followed by North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Missouri.
Employment levels also showed limited movement. Nonfarm payrolls rose in one state, declined in two, and were essentially unchanged elsewhere, underscoring a slowdown in hiring activity across much of the country.
Despite the stability, disparities remain. Hawaii and South Dakota posted the lowest unemployment rates, while the District of Columbia recorded the highest.
Tagged with economy, unemployment