AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas’ unemployment rate held steady in January at a seasonally adjusted 4.8 percent, the Texas Workforce Commission reported Friday.
The Texas jobless figure for January was the latest statewide reporting period by the commission. Nationwide unemployment during February, the latest U.S. reporting period, was 4.7 percent.
Amarillo and Lubbock had the lowest unemployment in Texas during January at 3.4 percent, according to a commission statement. The McAllen-Edinburg-Mission area had the state’s highest jobless rate in January at 9 percent.
Commission Chairman Andres Alcantar says Texas started 2017 on a high note, in terms of workforce, by adding 51,300 jobs in January.
“Employers in a diverse range of industries have added 225,300 jobs over the year, a reflection of the many competitive advantages Texas offers to employers, including a strong business climate and an expanding and highly skilled workforce,” Alcantar said.
The professional and business services industry recorded the largest private-industry employment gain over the month with 14,000 jobs added, according to the Texas Workforce Commission statement. Trade, transportation, and utilities employment grew by 8,100 jobs in January. Manufacturing employment expanded by 7,300 jobs, commission officials said.
“Our economy continues to offer many diverse opportunities to job seekers,” said Commissioner Julian Alvarez.
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Online:
http://www.twc.state.tx.us/