May 2026 — 2026-06-23

Unemployment rates were lower in May in 6 states, higher in 2 states, and stable in 42 states and the District of Columbia, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Sixteen states had jobless rate increases from a year earlier, 6 states had decreases, and 28 states and the District had little change. The national unemployment rate, 4.3 percent, was unchanged both over the month and over the year. In May, nonfarm payroll employment increased in 2 states and was essentially unchanged in 48 states and the District of Columbia. Over the year, nonfarm payroll employment increased in 2 states, decreased in 1 state and the District, and was essentially unchanged in 47 states. This news release presents statistics from two monthly programs. The civilian labor force and unemployment data are modeled based largely on a survey of households. These data pertain to people by where they reside.