Texas Saw More Positive Job Growth For January

AUSTIN — The Texas economy saw more positive employment growth to begin 2019, with 15,400 seasonally adjusted nonfarm positions added in January.

After holding at a historic low for five consecutive months, Texas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.8 percent. January marked the 105th consecutive month of annual growth for total nonfarm employment.

“Texas employers added 292,000 jobs since last January, an increase of 2.4 percent, which provides exceptional opportunities for our highly skilled workforce and highlights the competitive strength of our diverse economy,” said TWC Chair and Commissioner Representing Employers Ruth R. Hughs. “Texas is state that continues to welcome new employers and was recently awarded the Governor’s Cup for our efforts in economic development for a record- breaking seventh year in a row.”

Private sector annual employment growth held steady at 2.6 percent in January and has held above 2.0 percent since October 2017.

The Professional and Business Services industry led over the month with a gain of 8,800 jobs. This industry also gained the second most jobs over the year with 47,800 positions, for a 2.8 percent annual growth rate. 

Included in this industry, the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sector contributed most of the job gains over the year with 33,000 positions.

“Positive economic growth means continued opportunities for the expanding labor force here in Texas in well-paying industries such as Healthcare, Manufacturing, and Construction,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “The Texas labor force has much to offer and there are resources available to find the perfect occupational fit. I encourage our labor force to connect with TWC’s apprenticeship training program that can help prepare them for a well-paying career.”

Trade, Transportation, and Utilities added 51,000 jobs from January 2018 to January 2019 – more positions than any other major industry in Texas.

The Wholesale Trade and Transportation, Warehousing, and Utilities sectors contributed over 90 percent of this growth.

The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) recorded January’s lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a non-seasonally adjusted rate of 2.3 percent, followed by the Odessa MSA which recorded at 2.8 for the second lowest rate. The Amarillo MSA recorded the third lowest rate of 3.1 percent.

“Much like the tenacity of Texans, job creation is strong in our state,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Robert D. Thomas. “Through continued hard work, and policies focused on empowering our most at-risk residents, Texas’ economy can not only endure but serve as an example of prosperity.”