News Summary
In May 2025, Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate held steady at 3.9%, lower than the national average of 4.2%. Despite a slight year-over-year increase, nonfarm jobs reached a record high of 6,223,400, driven primarily by growth in the leisure and hospitality sector. The state’s total labor force decreased, highlighting ongoing shifts within the job market. Overall, while unemployment rose slightly, job creation continued robustly, suggesting a resilient economy with numerous opportunities for job seekers.
Pennsylvania Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 3.9% in May
Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate remained unchanged at 3.9% in May 2025, which is lower than the national unemployment rate of 4.2%. However, this figure represents a slight increase compared to May 2024, when the rate was 3.6%. Despite holding steady, the state’s employment numbers showed some fluctuations, with total nonfarm jobs reaching a record high.
Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry revealed that the civilian labor force in the state decreased by 4,000, bringing the total to 6,545,000. Alongside this decline, Pennsylvania experienced a loss of 6,000 employed individuals from April, resulting in an increase of 2,000 unemployed individuals over the same period. These statistics indicate ongoing shifts within the state’s workforce landscape.
Record High Nonfarm Employment
Despite the rise in unemployment, total nonfarm jobs in Pennsylvania increased by 2,000 in May, hitting a record high of 6,223,400. This marks the 13th consecutive month where nonfarm employment in the state has reached new heights. Job growth was primarily driven by the leisure and hospitality sector, which added 2,500 positions. Overall, job increases were observed in four out of eleven supersectors during this timeframe.
Annual Job Gains
Looking at the broader trend over the past year, Pennsylvania has added a total of 89,200 jobs, with growth occurring across seven of the eleven industry supersectors. The education and health services sector reported the most significant increase, with an addition of 46,300 jobs since May 2024. This ongoing expansion reflects a robust recovery and growth pattern in various sectors of the economy.
Understanding Employment Data
It is important to note that all data provided is seasonally adjusted to allow for valid month-to-month comparisons. The preliminary employment figures for May 2025 may be subject to revision as further analysis is conducted.
Implications for Workers and Employers
The stable unemployment rate in conjunction with record high job statistics suggests that while there has been a slight increase in the number of unemployed individuals, the overall job market remains strong in Pennsylvania. The consistent growth in sectors such as leisure, hospitality, education, and health services indicates resilient opportunities for job seekers in these fields. Employers are encouraged to continue to engage in workforce development and adapt to the ongoing shifts in labor market demands.
Conclusion
In summary, Pennsylvania’s steady unemployment rate and record high nonfarm jobs reflect a dynamic and evolving job market. While the state faces challenges, particularly with slight increases in unemployment and reductions in the labor force, the overall growth in employment suggests a continuing recovery and potential for future job creation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Central Pennsylvania Business Journal
- Explore Jefferson PA
- Times Leader
- Fox43
- Wikipedia: Pennsylvania
