OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washington’s unemployment rate held steady at 4.4% in April 2025, despite a decrease of 5,800 jobs, according to the Employment Security Department.
In April, nonfarm employment decreased by 5,200, and government employment fell by 700. However, education and health services saw a rise of 3,900 jobs, professional and business services gained 2,200 and wholesale trade increased by 700.
Unemployment claims also decreased, with 68,859 people receiving benefits, down 5,829 from the previous month. Declines in construction, agriculture and administrative support contributed to this reduction.
From March to April 2025, Washington’s labor force decreased by 5,739 people, totaling 4,051,983.
Despite the steady unemployment rate, private sector employment dropped by 3,000 jobs over the year, while government jobs increased by 4,200. Education and health services showed significant gains, adding 11,800 jobs, while manufacturing faced the largest losses, down 7,200 jobs.
For more information, see the Monthly Employment Report online.
