Texas added more nonfarm jobs than any other state in 2025, according to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Governor Greg Abbott highlighted these gains, noting that Texas set records for total nonfarm jobs, the number of people employed, and the size of its labor force based on December labor market estimates.
“Texas is America’s jobs leader because Texas is where free enterprise flourishes and where hard work is rewarded,” said Governor Abbott. “That is why Texas tops all states for business relocations and expansions. Job-creating businesses — large and small — invest with certainty in Texas and in our young, skilled, and growing workforce. With more Texans working than ever before, we begin a new year of boundless opportunity in Texas.”
Labor market data show that between December 2024 and December 2025, Texas gained 132,500 jobs—more than any other state—and exceeded the national annual job growth rate by half a percentage point. The state also recorded its largest-ever labor force at nearly 16 million people (15,964,000) and reached a high for Texans working—including self-employed individuals—at over 15 million (15,283,600). Total nonfarm jobs hit a record high at 14,341,000 after an increase of 19,700 positions over the month.
The unemployment rate in Texas stood at 4.3%, which was slightly lower than the national average of 4.4%.
Governor Abbott recently recognized the strength of Texas’ economy while reflecting on economic achievements during 2025.
