The Lone Star State is setting records with its latest employment numbers, according to an announcement by Governor Greg Abbott. Official data indicate that not only are more Texans employed than ever before, but the state has also surpassed the national annual job growth rate. Governor Abbott's office reported a total count of 15,213,700 working individuals in Texas, which includes those who are self-employed, marking a historic peak for the state.
The Texas Workforce Commission's recent figures show that the state added 8,700 nonfarm jobs in July, reaching another zenith of 14,333,800 positions. Over the span of the last year, the state's economy has beefed up by 232,500 jobs, a rate 0.6 percentage points higher than the national average. However, the Texas civilian labor force also swelled, with an increase of 195,900 people since last year.
While the state's employment figures are flourishing, the unemployment rate has maintained a steady 4.0% throughout July. Texans who were hit by the recent July floods and are living in the designated disaster area have a silver lining, as they can seek Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). Applications for these benefits must be submitted by September 4, 2025, and can be done so either online or by phoning the Texas Workforce Commission.
The job surge in Texas has also prompted state-level initiatives to ensure Texans have the necessary skills for their roles. Governor Abbott has signed legislation aimed at enhancing career training programs, in alignment with fostering a resilient and prosperous Texas economy. Last week, Abbott announced over $1.6 million in Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants. These go to support career and technical education programs in South Texas, a move that further underscores the state's commitment to training and employment.
