Unemployment Drops in Southeast Texas as State Job Market Holds Steady

Region's jobless rate falls but still trails statewide average as Texas sees mixed employment data in February

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:07pm

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An abstract illustration composed of overlapping triangles and rectangles in navy blue, forest green, and burnt orange, conceptually representing economic data and job market trends in Southeast Texas and across the state.A geometric illustration capturing the mixed employment data for Texas, with the Beaumont-Port Arthur region's jobless rate declining but still trailing the statewide average.Beaumont Today

Unemployment in the Beaumont-Port Arthur area of Southeast Texas fell to 5.5% in February, down from 6.0% the previous month. While the improvement is welcome, the local rate remains well above the statewide seasonally adjusted figure of 4.3%, which held steady from January. Statewide, Texas lost 8,500 nonfarm jobs in February, but added 73,800 positions over the past year, representing an annual growth rate of 0.5% that outpaced the national rate.

Why it matters

The job market trends in Southeast Texas and across the state provide insight into the region's economic recovery and the overall strength of the Texas economy. While the local unemployment rate is declining, it still lags the statewide average, indicating the region may be recovering at a slower pace and highlighting the need to address any unique challenges facing workers and employers in the Beaumont-Port Arthur area.

The details

The Texas Workforce Commission reported that the Beaumont-Port Arthur region's unemployment rate dropped to 5.5% in February, down from 6.0% in January. Statewide, Texas lost 8,500 nonfarm jobs in February, but added 73,800 positions over the past year, representing an annual growth rate of 0.5% that outpaced the national rate. The Professional and Business Services industry led all sectors in February job creation, adding 6,300 positions, while Manufacturing added 2,500 jobs and Construction continued to show strong year-over-year momentum.

  • The unemployment rate in the Beaumont-Port Arthur area fell to 5.5% in February 2026, down from 6.0% in January 2026.
  • Statewide, Texas lost 8,500 nonfarm jobs in February 2026.

The players

Texas Workforce Commission

The state agency responsible for overseeing employment and workforce development programs in Texas.

Joe Esparza

Chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission, who credited the state's business environment for the long-term job growth.

Alberto Treviño III

Texas Workforce Commission Commissioner Representing Labor, who said the agency is focused on ensuring all Texans can access employment opportunities.

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What they’re saying

“Texas' over-the-year growth trajectory remains strong because we have cultivated a pro-business climate that helps employers grow and generate new opportunities for working Texans.”

— Joe Esparza, Chairman, Texas Workforce Commission

“The Texas workforce system is addressing the needs of today while anticipating those of tomorrow through initiatives like Texas Intern Network, which connects young Texans with employers.”

— Alberto Treviño III, Commissioner Representing Labor, Texas Workforce Commission

What’s next

The Texas Workforce Commission will continue to monitor employment trends across the state, including in the Beaumont-Port Arthur region, and work to connect job seekers with available opportunities through programs like the Texas Intern Network.

The takeaway

While the Beaumont-Port Arthur area is seeing improvements in its job market, the region's unemployment rate still lags the statewide average, highlighting the need for targeted efforts to address any unique challenges facing local workers and employers. The overall strength of the Texas economy, driven by a pro-business climate, provides a foundation for continued growth and opportunity across the state.