News releases

Washington’s economy gained an estimated 10,600 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in May 2026 while the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 5.2%.

Washington’s average annual wage grew by 4.9% in 2025 to $99,810, according to the Employment Security Department. The increase was driven by a 0.2% decrease in covered employment and a 4.7% increase in total earnings, which grew by nearly $15.7 billion.

WorkSource Thurston County is now open and helping customers at a new location in Lacey.

County unemployment rates and employment data for April 2026 are now available on the Employment Security Department website.

Washington’s economy lost an estimated 4,500 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in April 2026 while the unemployment rate increased slightly to 5.2% from 5.1% in March.

County unemployment rates and employment data for March 2026 are now available on the Employment Security Department website.

Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is now available to eligible workers who became unemployed due to severe weather in Dec. 5-19, 2025. The deadline to apply is June 10, 2026.

Washington’s economy lost an estimated 3,200 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in March 2026 while the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 5.1%.

County unemployment rates and employment data for February 2026 are now available on the Employment Security Department website.

Washington’s economy added an estimated 700 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in February 2026, and the unemployment rate rose to 5.1%, marking the fourth consecutive monthly increase.