The Texas Workforce Commission released monthly unemployment data last week, showing that Hill County’s unemployment rate rose to 4.2 percent in January.
That is up from December’s rate of 3.6 percent and slightly higher than the January 2025 rate of 4 percent.
Hill County had 796 unemployed individuals out of a total civilian labor force of 18,773 in January.
The Bosque County unemployment rate was 4.4 percent in January, with 371 unemployed individuals out of a total civilian labor force of 8,341.
Bosque County’s rate rose from 3.8 percent in December and is also higher than the January 2025 rate of 4.1 percent.
Statewide, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas remained stable at 4.3 percent.
Texas added 40,100 nonfarm jobs in January to reach a total of 14,379,500 positions. Over the year, the state added 112,200 jobs for an annual nonfarm growth rate of 0.8 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.6 percentage points.
Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,955,200 after decreasing by 3,400 over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 152,000 people.
The construction industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in January after adding 11,800 jobs. Construction also posted an annual growth rate of 3.4 percent in January, which was the highest of any major industry. The leisure and hospitality industry and private education and health services industry each added 10,300 jobs over the month, while professional and business services added 10,200.
“The growth we’re seeing in sectors like construction and leisure and hospitality is promising, but we need to ensure these jobs translate into real opportunities for Texas workers,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Trevino III.
“That’s why TWC’s focus on apprenticeship programs and initiatives like the jobs and education for Texans grant is vital, providing the training and resources Texans need to succeed in these growing fields and build lasting careers.”
The Amarillo metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.3 percent in January. It was followed by the Midland MSA at 3.4 percent and the San Angelo MSA at 3.5 percent.
“Job growth in Texas continues to outpace the nation thanks in large part to a dynamic workforce system that enables both employers and job seekers to thrive,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “TWC resources connect working Texans with high-demand career opportunities while ensuring Texas businesses have access to a skilled workforce.”
Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Lakelander 