Texas added 159,400 nonfarm jobs over the past 12 months, Gov. Greg Abbott announced, citing the growth as evidence of the state's economic strength.
The state's annual growth rate of 1.1 percent outpaced the national rate by 0.7 percentage points, according to labor market data released this week. Nonfarm jobs in Texas totaled 14,469,300 after a gain of 5,600 positions in August.
Industry sectors showing the fastest growth rates from August 2025 to August 2026 included Professional and Business Services, Leisure and Hospitality, and Construction, Abbott's office said.
The state's labor force totaled 15,932,600, with a gain of 10,900 people over the 12-month period. Texas residents employed, including self-employed workers, totaled 15,225,100.
Abbott's office also noted that the state awarded Jobs and Education for Texans grants totaling $1,327,075 to four West Central Texas schools for equipment to train students in high-demand occupations such as welding and nursing.