December 17, 2021

Texas exceeds pre-pandemic employment level by reaching 12,998,200 jobs in November

Unemployment rate falls To 5.2%

AUSTIN, TEXAS — The Texas labor market has surpassed its previous pre-pandemic employment high in February 2020 of 12,970,000 jobs by reaching 12,998,200 total nonagricultural jobs in November 2021, the Texas Workforce Commission reported Friday.

“This record-setting job growth is an important milestone for Texas employers and Texas job seekers as well as companies considering investing in Texas,” said Robert Allen, President and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Corporation (TxEDC). “It’s a testament to the overall strength and resilience of the Texas economy and an indication of bigger things to come.”

In November, Texas added 75,100 jobs, also marking gains in 18 of the last 19 months. Texas has added a total of 698,700 jobs since November 2020. The seasonally adjusted Texas unemployment rate was 5.2%, a decrease of 0.2 percentage points from October 2021.

“Texas continues to reach unprecedented milestones thanks to our unwavering commitment to economic freedom and our young, skilled, growing and diverse workforce,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “By reaching nearly 13 million jobs last month, Texas has surpassed our pre-pandemic employment levels — a remarkable achievement and testament to our welcoming business climate and strong workforce. We will continue to unleash the full might of our economy, attract new business investments, and ensure a more prosperous future for all who call Texas home.”

In November, the Professional and Business Services industry gained 22,900 jobs over the month. Leisure and Hospitality added 12,500 positions. Financial Activities added 9,300 jobs.

The Amarillo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) recorded November’s lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.1%, followed by the Austin-Round Rock MSA at 3.2% and College Station-Bryan at 3.5%.

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.