AUSTIN, Texas – According to data released today from the Texas Workforce Commission, the Austin-Round Rock MSA* unemployment rate increased slightly from July 2024 to August 2024, and is now at 3.7%**, as represented by 54,543 unemployed residents. Key takeaways include:
- The Austin metro unemployment rate remains below the Texas (4.4%) and national rates (4.4%) in August.
- According to TWC, the Austin metro gained 4,200 jobs from July to August. The region has experienced an annual growth rate of 1.3%, representing the collective addition of 17,300 jobs since August 2023.
- Furthermore, TWC reports unemployment in the Capital Area/Travis County region*** increased slightly to 3.6% from July to August, representing 31,354 unemployed residents.
- Note: The unemployment data released today is not seasonally adjusted.
August Job Growth/Losses by Industry in the Austin-Round Rock MSA:
- Monthly Increases: Industries that experienced regional job growth from July to August include professional and business services (1,800), mining, logging and construction (1,700) and government (1,000).
- Other industries that experienced monthly job growth include trade, transportation and utilities (600), private education and health services (100) and other services (100).
- Monthly Decreases: Leisure and hospitality (-900) and information (-200) experienced regional job losses from July to August.
- Annual Increases: Mining, logging and construction experienced the greatest regional job growth over the past 12 months with an increase of 5.8%, followed by other services (4.0%).
- Other industries that experienced annual job growth include leisure and hospitality (3.7%), private education and health services (2.4%), government (1.9%), trade, transportation and utilities (1.1%) and financial activities (0.7%).
- Annual Decreases: Information (-4.9%) and professional and business services (-0.9%) experienced an annual decrease from August 2023 to August 2024.
On Oct. 17, Workforce Solutions Capital Area, in partnership with Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Education Service Center Region 13, and Goodwill Central Texas, will host the Texas HireAbility Job Fair. This free public event aims to connect Texans with disabilities with local career opportunities and no-cost training for in-demand careers.
“This event underscores our commitment to fostering inclusive employment opportunities for all Texans,” Tamara Atkinson, CEO of Workforce Solutions Capital Area, said. “By connecting individuals with disabilities to meaningful work, we not only empower them but also build a stronger, more diverse workforce in Central Texas.”
At this event, job seekers can also find out if they qualify for childcare assistance and financial support while they train for a career or actively seek a job. Auxiliary aids and services will be available at the event upon request.
Workforce Solutions Capital Area recognizes that individuals with disabilities bring valuable perspectives and skills to the table. By fostering an inclusive environment, employers can provide a space for all to thrive, strengthening their workplace and the overall workforce.
Job seekers can register or learn more by visiting: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-texas-hireability-capital-area-job-fair-registration-998656397167?aff=oddtdtcreator
Employers interested in reserving a table for this event can register or learn more by visiting: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-texas-hireability-capital-area-job-fair-vendors-registration-998660419197?aff=oddtdtcreator
Workforce Solutions Capital Area’s career centers across Austin are available by phone, email, or in-person to help residents plan their careers and increase their income, as well as provide employers with tailored business solutions at various levels of support. Residents seeking assistance can contact 512-454-9675 or visit wfscapitalarea.com to learn about services and resources for job seekers, employers, parents and students.
Workforce Solutions Capital Area is the non-profit organization that serves as the leadership and governing body for the Austin/Travis County area workforce system. They are responsible for the planning, oversight, and evaluation of workforce development activities in the Capital Area. Learn more at WFSCapitalArea.com and follow along on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.
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*The Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area includes Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties.
**Unemployment rates listed are not seasonally adjusted.
***The Capital Area Workforce Development Area includes Travis County.
