In December 2025, unemployment rates in North Carolina saw a widespread decrease, with 99 of the state’s counties reporting declines, according to a recent government press release. Edgecombe County reported the highest unemployment rate at 5.4 percent, while Stanly County had the lowest at 2.6 percent. All fifteen metro areas in the state experienced a decrease in unemployment rates, with Rocky Mount having the highest metro rate at 4.8 percent. The statewide unemployment rate, unadjusted for seasonal variations, stood at 3.4 percent.
An analysis of the unemployment data shows that 97 counties had rates at or below 5 percent, with three counties reporting rates between 5 and 10 percent. In comparison to November, when 84 counties were below 5 percent, the data suggests a notable improvement. Over the year, unemployment rates have increased in 65 counties, decreased in 24, and remained unchanged in 11. The trend was mirrored in the metro areas, with 13 out of 15 experiencing increases over the year.
The number of employed individuals across the state increased by 36,570 in December, reaching a total of 5,108,591, while the number of unemployed individuals decreased by 39,163, bringing the total to 181,301. Compared to December 2024, there was an increase of 41,381 in the employed population and an increase of 3,101 in the unemployed population. These figures, however, are not adjusted for seasonal employment patterns, which can significantly influence employment estimates.
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