News Summary
Midland continues to demonstrate economic stability with its unemployment rate at 3%, the lowest in Texas. The metropolitan area has seen a growth in the labor force and an increase in job count, with significant contributions from various sectors. Over the past year, Midland added 2,700 jobs, while Texas also reported overall job growth. Moreover, infrastructure improvements are needed to sustain this growth amid rising demand. The future looks promising for job seekers and the local economy.
Midland, Texas Maintains Steady Unemployment Rate of 3% in June Amid Job Growth
Midland’s metropolitan statistical area (MSA), which includes Midland and Martin counties, reported a sustained unemployment rate of 3% in June, maintaining the same figure as in May and slightly below last year’s rate of 3.1%. This keeps Midland at the forefront as the area with the lowest unemployment rate in Texas, ahead of Amarillo and San Angelo, both reporting rates of 3.1%.
In contrast, Odessa experienced a slight increase in its unemployment rate, rising to 3.6% in June from 3.5% the previous month, although this figure is an improvement from last year’s 3.8%.
Labor Force Growth and Employment Rates
June saw an increase in Midland’s civilian labor force, expanding to 106,191 individuals, up from 105,642 in May and 103,508 a year ago. Concurrently, the number of employed individuals also rose to 103,020, compared to 102,490 in May and 100,248 last June.
The number of unemployed individuals in the region slightly increased to 3,171 in June from 3,152 in May, although this figure shows a year-over-year decline from 3,260 in June of the previous year.
Job Creation in Various Sectors
Midland’s total nonfarm job count increased by 500 jobs, reaching a total of 127,400 in June. Significant contributions to job growth came from the Mining, Logging and Construction sector as well as the Trade, Transportation and Utilities sector, each adding 300 new positions. Additionally, the Financial Activities and Leisure and Hospitality sectors each contributed 100 jobs, while there were losses of 100 jobs in the Professional and Business Services sector, Private Education and Health Services sector, and Government sectors.
Over the past year, Midland has seen an addition of 2,700 jobs, representing a growth rate of 2.2%. Notably, the Private Education and Health Services sector led the way, contributing 1,400 new jobs, followed by significant growth in Trade, Transportation and Utilities with 500 jobs and Leisure and Hospitality with 300.
Statewide Context
On a broader scale, Texas’ civilian labor force hit a record high of 15,850,100 in June after an increase of 10,800 people. The state overall added 198,300 new jobs in the past year, bringing the total nonfarm job count to 14,329,200, despite a slight decrease of 1,900 jobs over June. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for Texas was registered at 4%, a decrease from 4.1% in May.
Furthermore, Texas has seen a notable addition of 237,800 people to its civilian labor force in the past year, although Eagle Pass reported the highest unemployment rate in the state at 9.6%.
Market Stability and Economic Insights
The CEO of Workforce Solutions Permian Basin highlighted the stability within Midland’s labor market. However, concerns have been raised regarding long-term infrastructure due to the demand generated by job growth. The natural resources and mining sector significantly impacted the local economy, contributing $1.22 billion in wages in the last quarter of 2024.
Additionally, Midland International Air and Space Port reported an increase in business travelers, suggesting a rise in local economic activity, further emphasizing the area’s economic resilience amidst changing job market dynamics.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Midland’s Lowest Unemployment Rate
- Midland Unemployment Rate in Texas
- Odessa Among USA Cities with Highest Wages
- The New York Times: Business Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Unemployment
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
