he 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. 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 percent, 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,” said Governor Abbott. “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.
“Reaching this milestone for job creation in Texas shows the strength of our economy,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “The Lone Star State continues to create opportunities for Texans to succeed and TWC has many resources to help both employers and job seekers find success in our state.”
The Amarillo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) recorded November’s lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.1 percent, followed by the Austin-Round Rock MSA at 3.2 percent and College Station-Bryan at 3.5 percent.
