A caution on this measure: state pay figures swing widely from month to month. Measured the same way, pay trailed prices in 18 states in August and 29 in July. Comparing average pay over the latest 11 months with data against the same months a year earlier, it trailed in 24 of 50 states. October 2025 is left out because BLS has no price figure for it.

Average hourly earnings for private-sector workers rose more slowly than consumer prices in 38 of 50 states over the 12 months to September 2026, according to a Liberty Tribune analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Nationwide, average hourly earnings rose 2.9% to $37.69 while prices rose 3.7%, so an hour of work buys 0.8% less than it did a year earlier.

Regional prices rose 4.2% in the Midwest, 4.2% in the Northeast, 3.4% in the West and 3.4% in the South. Pay fell behind in 11 of 12 Midwest states, all 9 Northeast states, 10 of 13 West states and 8 of 16 South states.

The widest gaps between pay and prices were in Wisconsin (4.1%), Minnesota (4.1%) and North Dakota (4.0%). Pay ran furthest ahead of prices in Hawaii (5.5%), New Mexico (2.9%) and Texas (2.3%).

The table below lists every state: hourly pay now and a year earlier, its change, the change in prices in its region, and what that leaves after inflation.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay: Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), average hourly earnings of all employees, total private, not seasonally adjusted, series SMU{state}000000500000003; CEU0500000003 for the nation. Prices: Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, all items, not seasonally adjusted, regional series CUUR0100SA0, CUUR0200SA0, CUUR0300SA0, CUUR0400SA0; CUUR0000SA0 for the nation. Both compared with the same month a year earlier; pay after inflation is (1 + pay growth) / (1 + price growth) - 1. BLS publishes no statewide price index, so each state is measured against its Census region. State figures are preliminary. The District of Columbia is excluded. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

A caution on this figure: state pay figures swing widely from month to month. For Wisconsin, the same measure was minus 3.0% in August and minus 2.2% in July. Comparing average pay over the latest 11 months with data against the same months a year earlier, pay trailed prices by 1.9%. October 2025 is left out because BLS has no price figure for it.

Average hourly earnings for private-sector workers in Wisconsin were $34.46 in September 2026, compared with $34.47 a year earlier, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay was essentially unchanged over the 12 months, while consumer prices in the Midwest rose 4.2%.

After inflation, an hour of work in Wisconsin buys 4.1% less than it did a year ago, the widest gap between pay and prices of any state.

To have kept pace with Midwest prices, the average hourly wage would have needed to reach $35.93, which is $1.47 an hour more than it is. Over a 40-hour week, that is $58.83.

Nationwide, average hourly earnings rose 2.9% to $37.69 while prices rose 3.7%. Pay trailed regional prices in 38 of 50 states.

Elsewhere in the East North Central division, pay after inflation: Illinois minus 0.2%, Ohio minus 0.2%, Indiana minus 0.6%, Michigan minus 0.9%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay: Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), average hourly earnings of all employees, total private, not seasonally adjusted, series SMU55000000500000003; CEU0500000003 for the nation. Prices: Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, all items, not seasonally adjusted, Midwest region series CUUR0200SA0; CUUR0000SA0 for the nation. Both compared with the same month a year earlier; pay after inflation is (1 + pay growth) / (1 + price growth) - 1. BLS publishes no statewide price index, so each state is measured against its Census region. State figures are preliminary. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

A caution on this figure: state pay figures swing widely from month to month. For Minnesota, the same measure was minus 3.6% in August and minus 4.4% in July. Comparing average pay over the latest 11 months with data against the same months a year earlier, pay trailed prices by 2.9%. October 2025 is left out because BLS has no price figure for it.

Average hourly earnings for private-sector workers in Minnesota were $39.78 in September 2026, compared with $39.78 a year earlier, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay was essentially unchanged over the 12 months, while consumer prices in the Midwest rose 4.2%.

After inflation, an hour of work in Minnesota buys 4.1% less than it did a year ago, the second-widest gap between pay and prices of any state.

To have kept pace with Midwest prices, the average hourly wage would have needed to reach $41.47, which is $1.69 an hour more than it is. Over a 40-hour week, that is $67.43.

Nationwide, average hourly earnings rose 2.9% to $37.69 while prices rose 3.7%. Pay trailed regional prices in 38 of 50 states.

Elsewhere in the West North Central division, pay after inflation: Missouri +1.6%, Kansas minus 0.1%, South Dakota minus 0.8%, Iowa minus 2.1%, Nebraska minus 3.8%, North Dakota minus 4.0%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay: Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), average hourly earnings of all employees, total private, not seasonally adjusted, series SMU27000000500000003; CEU0500000003 for the nation. Prices: Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, all items, not seasonally adjusted, Midwest region series CUUR0200SA0; CUUR0000SA0 for the nation. Both compared with the same month a year earlier; pay after inflation is (1 + pay growth) / (1 + price growth) - 1. BLS publishes no statewide price index, so each state is measured against its Census region. State figures are preliminary. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

A caution on this figure: state pay figures swing widely from month to month. For North Dakota, the same measure was minus 0.7% in August and plus 0.4% in July. Comparing average pay over the latest 11 months with data against the same months a year earlier, pay ran 0.5% ahead of prices. October 2025 is left out because BLS has no price figure for it.

Average hourly earnings for private-sector workers in North Dakota were $35.45 in September 2026, compared with $35.43 a year earlier, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rose 0.1% over the 12 months, while consumer prices in the Midwest rose 4.2%.

After inflation, an hour of work in North Dakota buys 4.0% less than it did a year ago, the third-widest gap between pay and prices of any state.

To have kept pace with Midwest prices, the average hourly wage would have needed to reach $36.93, which is $1.48 an hour more than it is. Over a 40-hour week, that is $59.26.

Nationwide, average hourly earnings rose 2.9% to $37.69 while prices rose 3.7%. Pay trailed regional prices in 38 of 50 states.

Elsewhere in the West North Central division, pay after inflation: Missouri +1.6%, Kansas minus 0.1%, South Dakota minus 0.8%, Iowa minus 2.1%, Nebraska minus 3.8%, Minnesota minus 4.1%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay: Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), average hourly earnings of all employees, total private, not seasonally adjusted, series SMU38000000500000003; CEU0500000003 for the nation. Prices: Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, all items, not seasonally adjusted, Midwest region series CUUR0200SA0; CUUR0000SA0 for the nation. Both compared with the same month a year earlier; pay after inflation is (1 + pay growth) / (1 + price growth) - 1. BLS publishes no statewide price index, so each state is measured against its Census region. State figures are preliminary. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

A caution on this figure: state pay figures swing widely from month to month. For Hawaii, the same measure was plus 6.6% in August and plus 4.1% in July. Comparing average pay over the latest 11 months with data against the same months a year earlier, pay ran 2.9% ahead of prices. October 2025 is left out because BLS has no price figure for it.

Average hourly earnings for private-sector workers in Hawaii were $41.08 in September 2026, compared with $37.66 a year earlier, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rose 9.1% over the 12 months, while consumer prices in the West rose 3.4%.

After inflation, an hour of work in Hawaii buys 5.5% more than it did a year ago, the largest real gain of any state.

Keeping pace with West prices required $38.95 an hour; pay came in $2.13 above that, or $85.16 over a 40-hour week.

Nationwide, average hourly earnings rose 2.9% to $37.69 while prices rose 3.7%. Pay trailed regional prices in 38 of 50 states.

Elsewhere in the Pacific division, pay after inflation: Oregon minus 0.3%, Washington minus 1.3%, California minus 1.5%, Alaska minus 2.6%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay: Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), average hourly earnings of all employees, total private, not seasonally adjusted, series SMU15000000500000003; CEU0500000003 for the nation. Prices: Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, all items, not seasonally adjusted, West region series CUUR0400SA0; CUUR0000SA0 for the nation. Both compared with the same month a year earlier; pay after inflation is (1 + pay growth) / (1 + price growth) - 1. BLS publishes no statewide price index, so each state is measured against its Census region. State figures are preliminary. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

A caution on this figure: state pay figures swing widely from month to month. For New Mexico, the same measure was plus 5.0% in August and plus 5.1% in July. Comparing average pay over the latest 11 months with data against the same months a year earlier, pay ran 3.4% ahead of prices. October 2025 is left out because BLS has no price figure for it.

Average hourly earnings for private-sector workers in New Mexico were $31.43 in September 2026, compared with $29.54 a year earlier, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rose 6.4% over the 12 months, while consumer prices in the West rose 3.4%.

After inflation, an hour of work in New Mexico buys 2.9% more than it did a year ago, the second-largest real gain of any state.

Keeping pace with West prices required $30.55 an hour; pay came in $0.88 above that, or $35.09 over a 40-hour week.

Nationwide, average hourly earnings rose 2.9% to $37.69 while prices rose 3.7%. Pay trailed regional prices in 38 of 50 states.

Elsewhere in the Mountain division, pay after inflation: Wyoming +0.8%, Arizona minus 0.2%, Utah minus 0.2%, Nevada minus 0.4%, Idaho minus 0.7%, Colorado minus 1.4%, Montana minus 2.0%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay: Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), average hourly earnings of all employees, total private, not seasonally adjusted, series SMU35000000500000003; CEU0500000003 for the nation. Prices: Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, all items, not seasonally adjusted, West region series CUUR0400SA0; CUUR0000SA0 for the nation. Both compared with the same month a year earlier; pay after inflation is (1 + pay growth) / (1 + price growth) - 1. BLS publishes no statewide price index, so each state is measured against its Census region. State figures are preliminary. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

A caution on this figure: state pay figures swing widely from month to month. For Texas, the same measure was plus 2.9% in August and plus 2.4% in July. Comparing average pay over the latest 11 months with data against the same months a year earlier, pay ran 0.9% ahead of prices. October 2025 is left out because BLS has no price figure for it.

Average hourly earnings for private-sector workers in Texas were $36.76 in September 2026, compared with $34.76 a year earlier, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rose 5.8% over the 12 months, while consumer prices in the South rose 3.4%.

After inflation, an hour of work in Texas buys 2.3% more than it did a year ago, the third-largest real gain of any state.

Keeping pace with South prices required $35.95 an hour; pay came in $0.81 above that, or $32.36 over a 40-hour week.

Nationwide, average hourly earnings rose 2.9% to $37.69 while prices rose 3.7%. Pay trailed regional prices in 38 of 50 states.

Elsewhere in the West South Central division, pay after inflation: Oklahoma +0.4%, Louisiana +0.2%, Arkansas minus 2.3%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay: Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), average hourly earnings of all employees, total private, not seasonally adjusted, series SMU48000000500000003; CEU0500000003 for the nation. Prices: Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, all items, not seasonally adjusted, South region series CUUR0300SA0; CUUR0000SA0 for the nation. Both compared with the same month a year earlier; pay after inflation is (1 + pay growth) / (1 + price growth) - 1. BLS publishes no statewide price index, so each state is measured against its Census region. State figures are preliminary. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Government employment fell in 33 of 50 states over the 12 months to September 2026, according to a Liberty Tribune analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. It grew in 16.

Nationwide, government employment shrank 0.9% to 23.33 million jobs, while private employment grew 0.5%. Government still grew faster than private employers in 9 states.

Government outpaced private employers by the widest margins in Michigan (2.7 points), Vermont (1.4 points) and New York (0.8 points). Private employers ran furthest ahead of government in Indiana (6.0 points), Alaska (5.6 points) and Idaho (3.4 points).

Government's share of all jobs ranges from 11.3% in Pennsylvania to 24.1% in Wyoming. The figures cover federal, state and local government, including public schools and universities.

The table below lists every state: government jobs, government's share of all jobs, and the 12-month change in government and private employment.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), seasonally adjusted, government SMS{state}000009000000001, private SMS{state}000000500000001, all jobs SMS{state}000000000000001; CES9000000001, CES0500000001 and CES0000000001 for the nation. Changes compare the same month a year earlier. Government covers federal, state and local government, including public education. State figures are preliminary and revised by BLS. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Government employers in Michigan had 643,400 jobs in September 2026, up 14,900 from a year earlier, a 2.4% increase, according to preliminary, seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Over the same 12 months, private-sector employment shrank 0.3%.

That gap of 2.7 percentage points between government and private job growth is the widest of any state.

Government accounts for 14.3% of all nonfarm jobs in Michigan, the 33rd highest share of the 50 states. The figures cover federal, state and local government, including public schools and universities.

Nationwide, government employment shrank 0.9% over the year while private employment grew 0.5%. Government grew faster than private employers in 9 of 50 states.

Elsewhere in the East North Central division, government job growth against private: Illinois government minus 0.1%, private +0.3%; Ohio government minus 1.0%, private +0.6%; Wisconsin government minus 1.3%, private +0.7%; Indiana government minus 5.6%, private +0.4%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), seasonally adjusted, series SMS26000009000000001 (government), SMS26000000500000001 (private) and SMS26000000000000001 (all jobs); CES9000000001, CES0500000001 and CES0000000001 for the nation. Changes compare the same month a year earlier. Government covers federal, state and local government, including public education. State figures are preliminary and revised by BLS. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Government employers in Vermont had 56,800 jobs in September 2026, up 600 from a year earlier, a 1.1% increase, according to preliminary, seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Over the same 12 months, private-sector employment shrank 0.3%.

That gap of 1.4 percentage points between government and private job growth is the second-widest of any state.

Government accounts for 18.3% of all nonfarm jobs in Vermont, the 11th highest share of the 50 states. The figures cover federal, state and local government, including public schools and universities.

Nationwide, government employment shrank 0.9% over the year while private employment grew 0.5%. Government grew faster than private employers in 9 of 50 states.

Elsewhere in the New England division, government job growth against private: New Hampshire government +0.8%, private +0.3%; Massachusetts government +0.7%, private +0.4%; Rhode Island government minus 1.2%, private unchanged; Maine government minus 1.0%, private +0.3%; Connecticut government minus 0.6%, private +1.1%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), seasonally adjusted, series SMS50000009000000001 (government), SMS50000000500000001 (private) and SMS50000000000000001 (all jobs); CES9000000001, CES0500000001 and CES0000000001 for the nation. Changes compare the same month a year earlier. Government covers federal, state and local government, including public education. State figures are preliminary and revised by BLS. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 30, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

New York employers added 19,600 jobs in September 2026, the most of any state, according to preliminary, seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Total nonfarm payrolls in the state stood at 9.97 million jobs.

Over the past 12 months, New York has added 18,700 jobs, a change of 0.2%.

Nationwide, employers added 29,000 jobs in September.

Elsewhere in the Middle Atlantic division: New Jersey +14,900, Pennsylvania minus 600.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), total nonfarm, seasonally adjusted, series SMS36000000000000001; CES0000000001 for the nation. State figures are preliminary and revised by BLS. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 28, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

New Jersey employers added 14,900 jobs in September 2026, the second-most of any state, according to preliminary, seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Total nonfarm payrolls in the state stood at 4.38 million jobs.

Over the past 12 months, New Jersey has added 3,600 jobs, a change of 0.1%.

Nationwide, employers added 29,000 jobs in September.

Elsewhere in the Middle Atlantic division: New York +19,600, Pennsylvania minus 600.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), total nonfarm, seasonally adjusted, series SMS34000000000000001; CES0000000001 for the nation. State figures are preliminary and revised by BLS. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 28, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

South Carolina employers added 12,500 jobs in September 2026, the third-most of any state, according to preliminary, seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Total nonfarm payrolls in the state stood at 2.44 million jobs.

Over the past 12 months, South Carolina has added 55,200 jobs, a change of 2.3%.

Nationwide, employers added 29,000 jobs in September.

Elsewhere in the South Atlantic division: Virginia +7,800, Florida +5,300, North Carolina +600, West Virginia 0, Georgia minus 500, Delaware minus 800, Maryland minus 8,800.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), total nonfarm, seasonally adjusted, series SMS45000000000000001; CES0000000001 for the nation. State figures are preliminary and revised by BLS. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 28, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Wisconsin lost 13,700 jobs in September 2026, the largest loss of any state, according to preliminary, seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Total nonfarm payrolls in the state stood at 3.04 million jobs.

Over the past 12 months, Wisconsin has added 13,000 jobs, a change of 0.4%.

Nationwide, employers added 29,000 jobs in September.

Elsewhere in the East North Central division: Ohio minus 5,000, Michigan minus 6,300, Illinois minus 7,200, Indiana minus 10,300.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), total nonfarm, seasonally adjusted, series SMS55000000000000001; CES0000000001 for the nation. State figures are preliminary and revised by BLS. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 28, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Texas lost 11,100 jobs in September 2026, the second-largest loss of any state, according to preliminary, seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Total nonfarm payrolls in the state stood at 14.46 million jobs.

Over the past 12 months, Texas has added 154,300 jobs, a change of 1.1%.

Nationwide, employers added 29,000 jobs in September.

Elsewhere in the West South Central division: Arkansas +2,900, Louisiana +300, Oklahoma +100.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), total nonfarm, seasonally adjusted, series SMS48000000000000001; CES0000000001 for the nation. State figures are preliminary and revised by BLS. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 28, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Missouri lost 10,600 jobs in September 2026, the third-largest loss of any state, according to preliminary, seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Total nonfarm payrolls in the state stood at 3.01 million jobs.

Over the past 12 months, Missouri has added 28,400 jobs, a change of 1.0%.

Nationwide, employers added 29,000 jobs in September.

Elsewhere in the West North Central division: Iowa +1,800, Nebraska +400, South Dakota minus 500, North Dakota minus 1,400, Kansas minus 2,100, Minnesota minus 4,600.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), total nonfarm, seasonally adjusted, series SMS29000000000000001; CES0000000001 for the nation. State figures are preliminary and revised by BLS. Ranks exclude the District of Columbia. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 28, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Nevada's unemployment rate fell to 4.7% in September 2026, down from 4.8% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the lowest rate the state has recorded since February 2020, when it was 4.4%.

Nevada now ranks 42nd of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., up from 44th in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so Nevada sits 0.5 percentage points above the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 5.2%.

Elsewhere in the Mountain division: Wyoming 3.0%, Montana 3.1%, Utah 3.5%, Idaho 3.6%, Colorado 4.1%, New Mexico 4.7%, Arizona 4.9%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST320000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Alabama's unemployment rate rose to 3.5% in September 2026, up from 3.4% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the highest rate the state has recorded since June 2021, when it was also 3.5%.

Alabama now ranks 18th of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., down from 15th in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so Alabama sits 0.7 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 2.8%.

Elsewhere in the East South Central division: Mississippi 3.3%, Tennessee 3.4%, Kentucky 4.7%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST010000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Louisiana's unemployment rate fell to 4.0% in September 2026, down from 4.2% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the lowest rate the state has recorded since October 2023, when it was 3.9%.

Louisiana now ranks 28th of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., up from 31st in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so Louisiana sits 0.2 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 4.2%.

Elsewhere in the West South Central division: Arkansas 3.9%, Oklahoma 4.2%, Texas 4.4%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST220000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

North Carolina's unemployment rate fell to 3.4% in September 2026, down from 3.5% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the lowest rate the state has recorded since July 2023, when it was also 3.4%.

North Carolina now ranks 14th of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., up from 18th in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so North Carolina sits 0.8 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 3.9%.

Elsewhere in the South Atlantic division: Georgia 3.3%, Virginia 3.6%, Maryland 3.9%, South Carolina 4.0%, West Virginia 4.0%, Florida 4.4%, Delaware 4.6%, District of Columbia 5.6%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST370000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Pennsylvania's unemployment rate fell to 3.6% in September 2026, down from 3.7% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the lowest rate the state has recorded since September 2023, when it was also 3.6%.

Pennsylvania now ranks 20th of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., up from 23rd in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so Pennsylvania sits 0.6 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 4.4%.

Elsewhere in the Middle Atlantic division: New Jersey 4.2%, New York 4.3%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST420000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

New Jersey's unemployment rate fell to 4.2% in September 2026, down from 4.3% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the lowest rate the state has recorded since May 2023, when it was also 4.2%.

New Jersey ranks 32nd of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., the same place as a month earlier.

The national rate was also 4.2%.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 5.5%.

Elsewhere in the Middle Atlantic division: Pennsylvania 3.6%, New York 4.3%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST340000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Rhode Island's unemployment rate fell to 3.6% in September 2026, down from 3.7% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the lowest rate the state has recorded since November 2023, when it was 3.5%.

Rhode Island now ranks 20th of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., up from 23rd in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so Rhode Island sits 0.6 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 4.3%.

Elsewhere in the New England division: New Hampshire 2.6%, Vermont 2.6%, Maine 3.3%, Massachusetts 4.3%, Connecticut 5.1%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST440000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

New Hampshire's unemployment rate fell to 2.6% in September 2026, down from 2.8% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the lowest rate the state has recorded since August 2024, when it was also 2.6%.

New Hampshire now ranks 3rd of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., up from 5th in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so New Hampshire sits 1.6 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 3.2%.

Elsewhere in the New England division: Vermont 2.6%, Maine 3.3%, Rhode Island 3.6%, Massachusetts 4.3%, Connecticut 5.1%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST330000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Mississippi's unemployment rate fell to 3.3% in September 2026, down from 3.4% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the lowest rate the state has recorded since August 2024, when it was also 3.3%.

Mississippi now ranks 11th of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., up from 15th in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so Mississippi sits 0.9 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 3.7%.

Elsewhere in the East South Central division: Tennessee 3.4%, Alabama 3.5%, Kentucky 4.7%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST280000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

South Carolina's unemployment rate fell to 4.0% in September 2026, down from 4.1% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the lowest rate the state has recorded since April 2024, when it was 3.9%.

South Carolina now ranks 28th of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., up from 29th in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so South Carolina sits 0.2 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 4.7%.

Elsewhere in the South Atlantic division: Georgia 3.3%, North Carolina 3.4%, Virginia 3.6%, Maryland 3.9%, West Virginia 4.0%, Florida 4.4%, Delaware 4.6%, District of Columbia 5.6%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST450000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Hawaii's unemployment rate rose to 2.8% in September 2026, up from 2.7% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That is the highest rate the state has recorded since September 2024, when it was also 2.8%.

Hawaii now ranks 5th of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., down from 4th in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so Hawaii sits 1.4 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 2.1%.

Elsewhere in the Pacific division: Alaska 4.3%, Washington 4.8%, Oregon 5.0%, California 5.1%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST150000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Maryland's unemployment rate fell to 3.9% in September 2026, down from 4.1% in August, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Maryland now ranks 26th of 51 for the lowest rate among the 50 states and D.C., up from 29th in August.

The national rate was 4.2%, so Maryland sits 0.3 percentage points below the U.S. figure.

A year earlier, in September 2025, the state's rate was 4.3%.

Elsewhere in the South Atlantic division: Georgia 3.3%, North Carolina 3.4%, Virginia 3.6%, South Carolina 4.0%, West Virginia 4.0%, Florida 4.4%, Delaware 4.6%, District of Columbia 5.6%.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics, series LASST240000000000003 (seasonally adjusted), and LNS14000000 for the national rate. Rank 1 is the lowest rate; tied states share a rank. Computed by The Liberty Tribune from the published series.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 26, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Private employers in Hawaii, Vermont, Iowa, Massachusetts and Maryland averaged fewer jobs over the 12 months to September 2026 than they did in 2019, according to a Liberty Tribune analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Oregon (minus 0.1%) and Illinois (0.0%) are about level with 2019 and are not counted.

In Iowa, Massachusetts and Maryland, government payrolls grew over the same period. Maryland added the most: 18,500 government jobs, against 11,400 fewer private ones.

Nationwide, private employment is up 5.5% from 2019 and government employment is up 3.2%. Government grew faster than private employers in 14 of 50 states, and government payrolls shrank in 16.

Private employment grew the most in Idaho (19.0%), Utah (15.2%) and Nevada (13.3%).

The comparison uses averages to smooth monthly swings: the 12 months to September 2026 against all of 2019, seasonally adjusted. Government covers federal, state and local jobs, including public schools and universities. Recent months are preliminary, and BLS revises them. The figures are not adjusted for population change.

The table below lists every state, from the weakest private job growth to the strongest.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), seasonally adjusted, government SMS{state}000009000000001 and private SMS{state}000000500000001; CES9000000001 and CES0500000001 for the nation. Liberty Tribune analysis.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 31, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Private employers in Hawaii averaged 518,000 jobs over the 12 months to September 2026, down 14,400 from their 2019 average, a 2.7% drop, according to a Liberty Tribune analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Government employers in Hawaii averaged 125,100 jobs over the same 12 months, down 1,100 from 2019, a 0.9% decrease.

That private shortfall is the largest of any state in percentage terms. Private employment is at least 0.5% below its 2019 level in five of 50 states.

Nationwide, private employment is up 5.5% from 2019 and government employment is up 3.2%.

The comparison uses averages to smooth monthly swings: the 12 months to September 2026 against all of 2019, seasonally adjusted. Government covers federal, state and local jobs, including public schools and universities. Recent months are preliminary, and BLS revises them. The figures are not adjusted for population change.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), seasonally adjusted, government SMS{state}000009000000001 and private SMS{state}000000500000001; CES9000000001 and CES0500000001 for the nation. Liberty Tribune analysis.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 31, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Private employers in Vermont averaged 254,700 jobs over the 12 months to September 2026, down 5,100 from their 2019 average, a 2.0% drop, according to a Liberty Tribune analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Government employers in Vermont averaged 56,300 jobs over the same 12 months, down 200 from 2019, a 0.3% decrease.

That private shortfall is the 2nd-largest of any state in percentage terms. Private employment is at least 0.5% below its 2019 level in five of 50 states.

Nationwide, private employment is up 5.5% from 2019 and government employment is up 3.2%.

The comparison uses averages to smooth monthly swings: the 12 months to September 2026 against all of 2019, seasonally adjusted. Government covers federal, state and local jobs, including public schools and universities. Recent months are preliminary, and BLS revises them. The figures are not adjusted for population change.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), seasonally adjusted, government SMS{state}000009000000001 and private SMS{state}000000500000001; CES9000000001 and CES0500000001 for the nation. Liberty Tribune analysis.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 31, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Private employers in Iowa averaged 1,313,500 jobs over the 12 months to September 2026, down 13,200 from their 2019 average, a 1.0% drop, according to a Liberty Tribune analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Government employers in Iowa averaged 268,100 jobs over the same 12 months, up 7,700 from 2019, a 2.9% increase.

That private shortfall is the 3rd-largest of any state in percentage terms. Private employment is at least 0.5% below its 2019 level in five of 50 states.

Nationwide, private employment is up 5.5% from 2019 and government employment is up 3.2%.

The comparison uses averages to smooth monthly swings: the 12 months to September 2026 against all of 2019, seasonally adjusted. Government covers federal, state and local jobs, including public schools and universities. Recent months are preliminary, and BLS revises them. The figures are not adjusted for population change.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), seasonally adjusted, government SMS{state}000009000000001 and private SMS{state}000000500000001; CES9000000001 and CES0500000001 for the nation. Liberty Tribune analysis.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 31, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Private employers in Massachusetts averaged 3,233,600 jobs over the 12 months to September 2026, down 18,100 from their 2019 average, a 0.6% drop, according to a Liberty Tribune analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Government employers in Massachusetts averaged 474,600 jobs over the same 12 months, up 15,200 from 2019, a 3.3% increase.

That private shortfall is the 4th-largest of any state in percentage terms. Private employment is at least 0.5% below its 2019 level in five of 50 states.

Nationwide, private employment is up 5.5% from 2019 and government employment is up 3.2%.

The comparison uses averages to smooth monthly swings: the 12 months to September 2026 against all of 2019, seasonally adjusted. Government covers federal, state and local jobs, including public schools and universities. Recent months are preliminary, and BLS revises them. The figures are not adjusted for population change.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), seasonally adjusted, government SMS{state}000009000000001 and private SMS{state}000000500000001; CES9000000001 and CES0500000001 for the nation. Liberty Tribune analysis.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 31, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.

Private employers in Maryland averaged 2,270,500 jobs over the 12 months to September 2026, down 11,400 from their 2019 average, a 0.5% drop, according to a Liberty Tribune analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Government employers in Maryland averaged 525,700 jobs over the same 12 months, up 18,500 from 2019, a 3.6% increase.

That private shortfall is the 5th-largest of any state in percentage terms. Private employment is at least 0.5% below its 2019 level in five of 50 states.

Nationwide, private employment is up 5.5% from 2019 and government employment is up 3.2%.

The comparison uses averages to smooth monthly swings: the 12 months to September 2026 against all of 2019, seasonally adjusted. Government covers federal, state and local jobs, including public schools and universities. Recent months are preliminary, and BLS revises them. The figures are not adjusted for population change.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (State and Area), seasonally adjusted, government SMS{state}000009000000001 and private SMS{state}000000500000001; CES9000000001 and CES0500000001 for the nation. Liberty Tribune analysis.

Data retrieved from the BLS public API on October 31, 2026. BLS.gov cannot vouch for the data or analyses derived from these data after the data have been retrieved from BLS.gov.

Originally published by The Liberty Tribune.