Texas reaches new employment record as state adds jobs faster than the national growth rate
Austin, Texas – Texas has reached another economic milestone, setting a new record for total nonfarm employment while continuing to outpace national job growth, according to newly released labor market data highlighted by Governor Greg Abbott.
The latest figures from the Texas Workforce Commission show that the state’s economy continued to expand in May, with employers adding thousands of jobs and pushing overall employment to its highest level ever recorded.
Governor Abbott celebrated the achievement, pointing to it as evidence of the state’s ongoing economic strength and business-friendly environment.
“Texas sets new records and powers America’s economy once again,” said Governor Abbott. “We have a new all-time high of over 14.4 million nonfarm jobs and outpaced the nation’s growth rate for the year. This is just one of many economic factors that proves the success of our pro-business policies, regulatory environment, and the most skilled and determined workforce in the country. In Texas, freedom unleashes opportunity. With the talent, innovation, and strong work ethic of our people, Texas will lead this nation’s economic future for generations to come.”
Texas reaches new employment milestone
According to the labor market report, Texas added 17,800 nonfarm jobs during May, bringing total nonfarm employment to a record 14,419,200 jobs.
The state also posted strong growth over the past year. From May 2025 through May 2026, Texas gained 98,000 jobs, allowing it to exceed the annual job growth rate recorded nationwide.
Additional figures released by the Texas Workforce Commission showed that 15,213,400 Texans were working during the reporting period, including self-employed individuals.
Meanwhile, the state’s labor force reached 15,901,600 people. That figure represents an increase of 43,500 individuals over the previous 12 months, reflecting continued participation in the workforce.
State officials noted that Texas has experienced significant employment growth over a longer period as well. Since January 2015, Texas has added more than 2.6 million nonfarm jobs. During that same period, total job growth nationwide reached more than 18.4 million jobs.
Workforce investments and business expansion continue
The latest jobs report comes during a week that included several economic development announcements from the governor’s office.
Earlier in the week, Abbott announced more than $7 million in Texas Talent Connection grants. The funding will support 27 workforce training and job placement programs located in communities throughout the state. Officials say those programs are designed to help workers develop new skills and connect with employment opportunities.
The governor also recently highlighted Texas’ receipt of its 13th Gold Shovel Award, a national recognition honoring states that successfully attract major business investment projects capable of generating substantial job growth.
State leaders argue that a combination of workforce development initiatives, business recruitment efforts, and continued investment in economic growth has helped Texas maintain its position as one of the country’s strongest labor markets.
With record employment levels, a growing labor force, and continued investment in workforce programs, Texas officials say the state remains well-positioned for future growth and continued job creation across a wide range of industries.
