The unemployment rate in North Carolina remained steady at 3.7 percent in April 2026, according to the latest data from the state government. This rate is consistent with the revised figures for March, while the national unemployment rate also held constant at 4.3 percent. Compared to the same month last year, North Carolina’s unemployment rate has decreased by 0.1 percentage points. The data highlights a mixed employment situation, with some sectors experiencing growth while others see declines.
According to the press release, the number of employed individuals in North Carolina decreased by 9,660 over the month, totaling 5,097,931. However, there was a year-over-year increase of 9,126 employed individuals. The number of unemployed decreased by 482 over the month to reach 196,615, marking a year-over-year decline of 4,535. Seasonally adjusted Total Nonfarm employment rose by 16,000 in April, reaching 5,096,100, with the Leisure & Hospitality Services sector seeing the largest gain of 5,700 jobs.
Other industries contributing to employment growth included Professional & Business Services with an increase of 3,100 jobs, Construction with 2,700 jobs, and Trade, Transportation & Utilities adding 1,900 jobs. Financial Activities and Government each saw an increase of 900 jobs, while Private Education & Health Services added 400 jobs. Conversely, the Manufacturing sector experienced a slight decrease of 100 jobs, and Mining & Logging employment remained unchanged.
Over the past year, North Carolina has seen a total increase of 45,800 Nonfarm jobs, with substantial contributions from Private Education & Health Services, and Construction industries. The Government sector also added 4,400 jobs. However, Manufacturing and Information sectors reported declines of 10,600 and 2,400 jobs, respectively. The next update on county unemployment rates is expected on June 3, 2026.
Read More About This
