Texas Civilian Labor Force Exceeds 15.4 Million, Over 29,000 Jobs Added

Workforce Solutions East Texas • October 18, 2024

Texas’ labor market achieved new record highs in September in terms of the job count and number of people in the civilian labor force. Texas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm employment increased to 14,289,900 after 29,200 jobs were added over the month. Texas added 327,400 jobs from September 2023 to September 2024. Texas’ annual nonfarm growth rate currently sits at 2.3 percent, outpacing the U.S. growth rate by 0.7 percentage points.


In September, Texas’ seasonally adjusted civilian labor force achieved a new record-high of 15,449,900 after adding 51,500 people over the month. This marks the ninth consecutive month of growth for Texas’ civilian labor force. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 318,500 people.


The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.1 percent.


“Texas continues to outpace the nation in over-the-year nonfarm growth rate with more than 327,000 jobs added since September 2023,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “TWC supports this continued growth by helping build and shape a skilled workforce that meets the needs of Texas industries.”


Professional and Business Services added 10,500 jobs in September, registering as the industry with the largest over-the-month increase. Private Education and Health Services added 10,400 jobs over the month and Construction added 8,100 jobs. Construction showed 5.1 percent growth over the year, which outpaced the industry’s national growth rate by 2.1 percentage points.


“The record-setting 15.4 million Texans who make up our civilian labor force are strengthening and innovating our state’s economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “As our labor force continues to grow, TWC programs will continue to help all Texans secure meaningful employment and build brighter futures.”


All Texas MSA unemployment rates declined over the month. The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 2.6 percent in September, followed by the Amarillo MSA at 3.0 percent and the College Station-Bryan MSA at 3.2 percent.


“Industries across the state are growing as even more employers recognize Texas as the best state to do business,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “From recruitment and training to customized workforce solutions, TWC offers a comprehensive variety of services to empower employers and encourage success.”


Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. *All estimates are subject to revision. To access this and more employment data, visit TexasLMI.com.


The Texas Labor Market Information Data for October is scheduled to be released on Friday, November 15, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).


C.L.F. Employed Unemployed Rate
United States 168,569.0 162,046.0 6,524.0 3.9
Texas 15,553.1 14,920.1 633.1 4.1
Tyler 118.1 113.6 4.5 3.8
Longview 101.2 96.6 4.6 4.6

Our team and workforce development board pays close attention to key economic data about occupations and in-demand industries. Our goal as the local workforce development board is to evaluate current market trends in order to design and deliver services to businesses and job seekers in our region. To view the most recent labor market report for East Texas, visit www.easttexasworkforce.org/labor-market-information or click the button below.


East Texas Labor Market Information

Request for Applications: High Demand Job Training Grant FY26

By ETCOG & Workforce Solutions East Texas • September 4, 2025
Deadline for applications - September 26, 2025
Two women: one laughing, the other with a raised hand, in a well-lit room, possibly a home or office.

You’re Invited: Let’s Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • September 3, 2025
Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) and Texas Workforce Solutions -Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS) invite you to a celebration event on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 9:30 am to noon at the Longview Workforce Solutions Center located at 1905 W. Loop 281, Longview, TX 75604. At WSET, we are deeply committed to fostering an environment that welcomes all abilities in the workforce. National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a powerful reminder of the immense talent and untapped potential that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces. Whether you are an employer seeking to hire individuals with disabilities, an organization championing disability rights, or someone seeking to learn more TWS-VRS we invite you to attend our upcoming event. Our event promises insightful discussions, valuable networking opportunities, stories from participants who are successfully navigating their journey after receiving services through TWS-VRS along with those business partners who have hired them. There will also be resources aimed at helping businesses take significant steps toward creating a workplace that includes all abilities on their team. Let's come together to celebrate our 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). We celebrate the value and talent that all Americans - including people with disabilities – bring to our businesses, organizations, and communities. Join us in the momentous occasion as we celebrate this milestone in our nation’s history.
A man in a white shirt stands in front of a bookshelf. The words

From Summer Job to Career Path: Malachi Whedbee’s SEAL Success

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • August 26, 2025
When Malachi Whedbee joined the Summer Earn and Learn (SEAL) program, he saw it as an opportunity to gain experience, learn new skills, and contribute to his community. What he didn’t expect was how much of an impact his dedication would make—both on his future and on the people around him. Through SEAL, Malachi began working full-time at the Upshur Rural Library, clocking in at 8:00 a.m. every morning and working until 5:00 p.m. His days were filled with tasks like completing computer library entries, assisting with various projects, and lending a hand wherever needed. But for Malachi, these duties weren’t just boxes to check—they were chances to prove himself. And prove himself he did. Malachi’s exceptional work ethic showed in everything he did. He was always on time, completed assignments with precision, and eagerly stepped up for additional responsibilities. His positive attitude was contagious, creating a welcoming environment for both staff and patrons. Mrs. King, the library’s supervisor, quickly recognized that Malachi was more than just a temporary hire—he was an asset. Describing him as “outgoing, dependable, and hardworking,” she praised his professionalism and the joy he brought to the workplace. By the end of the program, Malachi’s efforts had done more than meet expectations—they had opened a door. Mrs. King was so impressed that she offered him an interview for a permanent position at the library. With the same enthusiasm and determination he brought to every day on the job, Malachi accepted the opportunity. Malachi’s journey through SEAL is more than a personal achievement—it’s a shining example of how young adults with disabilities can break barriers and build meaningful careers when given the chance. His story is a reminder that talent, dedication, and opportunity are the real building blocks of success.
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