Texas Unemployment Rate Continued to Fall in May 2022

Texas Workforce Commission • June 17, 2022

Tyler Rate 3.5%, Longview Rate 4.3%

Texas added 74,200 total nonagricultural jobs in May 2022. For the seventh consecutive month, the state set new employment highs as total nonfarm jobs reached 13,357,100. Texas has added a total of 762,400 positions since May 2021. The seasonally adjusted Texas unemployment rate was 4.2 percent, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points from April 2022.


"Texas continues to set records for employment growth with more than 250,000 jobs added from the beginning of this year through May," said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “Training and upskilling are crucial to maintaining this level of employment growth, and TWC remains committed to offering innovative training programs.”


Leisure and Hospitality gained 27,600 jobs over the month. Professional and Business Services added 15,300 positions, followed by Trade, Transportation, and Utilities employment which grew by 11,700 jobs. Three major industries surpassed their pre-COVID employment levels for the first time in May 2022 — Construction, Manufacturing, and Leisure and Hospitality. This brought the total to eight industries that have recovered from the pandemic-related downturn, joining Trade, Transportation, and Utilities, Information, Financial Activities, Professional and Business Services, and Education and Health Services.


“Regardless of your background or skill level, TWC offers pathways to a successful career for all Texans,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “In the coming months, we look forward to highlighting opportunities available in the Texas labor market. Our upcoming GRACE Conference aims to showcase the value of hiring second chance individuals to bolster our Texas economy.”


The Amarillo and Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA) recorded May’s lowest unemployment rates among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 2.7 percent, followed by College Station-Bryan at 2.9 percent, then Lubbock at 3.0 percent.


“TWC is dedicated to fostering new programs throughout the state to help Texas employers train their current and future workforce for their specific and unique business needs,” said TWC Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “TWC is here for all Texas employers large and small. Through the power of new initiatives like Texas Interns Unite!, we look forward to creating career opportunities for our future workforce and keeping Texas the best place to do business.”


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 & Career Information Data for June is scheduled to be released on Friday, July 22, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. (CDT).


Civilian Labor Force Estimates for Texas Metropolitan Statistical Areas Not Seasonally Adjusted (In Thousands)

C.L.F Employed Unemployed Rate
United States 164,157.0 158,609.0 5,548.0 3.4
Texas 14,500.6 13,946.5 554.1 3.8
Tyler 109.9 106.0 3.9 3.5
Longview 96.1 92.0 4.1 4.3
Full List

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.
Show More