Idaho Unemployment Rate Drops to 3.6% in December

Labor force grows by over 1,600 workers as professional and technical services lead job gains

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:55pm

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Idaho's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 3.7% to 3.6% from November to December 2025, according to the Idaho Department of Labor. The labor force grew by 1,628 people to over 1.01 million workers, with professional, scientific and technical services, construction, and private educational services leading job gains statewide. However, arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, and food services saw the largest job losses.

Why it matters

Idaho's unemployment rate has consistently outperformed the national average, highlighting the state's economic resilience. The latest dip in the jobless rate signals continued strength in the labor market, which is crucial for the state's economic growth and prosperity.

The details

The industries that saw the biggest employment gains in Idaho were professional, scientific and technical services (1.4%), construction (1.3%), private educational services (1.2%), transportation, warehousing and utilities (1.2%), and administrative, support and waste management services, health care and social services, and other services (all at 0.6%). However, arts, entertainment and recreation (-2.5%), accommodation and food services (-1.6%), finance and insurance (-1.6%), nondurable goods manufacturing (-0.9%), and real estate and rental leasing (-0.8%) experienced the largest job losses.

  • The unemployment rate decreased from 3.7% in November to 3.6% in December 2025.
  • The labor force grew by 1,628 workers to over 1.01 million in December 2025.

The players

Idaho Department of Labor

The state agency that tracks and reports on employment and unemployment data in Idaho.

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The takeaway

Idaho's consistently low unemployment rate compared to the national average highlights the state's economic resilience and the strength of its labor market, which is crucial for the state's continued growth and prosperity.