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CEDAR PARK, Texas – More Central Texans are working as the Rural Capital Area continues to build on a year of workforce and economic growth. July 2026 labor market data released by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) shows 723,569 residents employed, an increase of 3,023 from July 2025, while the regional labor force grew by 6,211 to nearly 755,000. Average weekly wages also climbed 7.3% over the year, and continued unemployment claims declined, adding to signs of strength across the nine-county economy.

More People Working Across Central Texas

The positive year-over-year trend extends across much of the region. Employment increased in seven of the nine Rural Capital Area counties compared with July 2025, led by Williamson County with 1,553 more employed residents, Hays County with 663, Bastrop County with 375 and Lee County with 265. Caldwell, Fayette and Blanco counties also recorded employment gains over the year.

Labor force growth was similarly widespread, with eight of nine counties above July 2025 levels. Williamson County added 3,517 people to its labor force, followed by Hays County with 1,439, Bastrop County with 466, Lee County with 312 and Caldwell County with 267.

“More people working means more families building their futures and more employers finding the talent they need,” said Paul Fletcher, CEO of Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA). “Our diverse economy continues to create opportunities across industries, and we’re focused on connecting people with those opportunities close to home.”

July also brought positive month-to-month movement. Regional employment increased by 830 from June, while the number of unemployed residents declined by 685 and the unemployment rate eased from 4.2% to 4.1%. The Rural Capital Area continued to outperform Texas, which recorded a 4.8% unemployment rate in July.

Higher Wages and Fewer Continued Claims

Workers across the Rural Capital Area are also earning more. Average weekly wages reached $1,583 in the first quarter of 2026, up $108, or 7.3%, from one year earlier. By comparison, average weekly wages statewide increased by approximately 3.8% over the same period.

Continued unemployment claims fell to 5,066, down 447, or 8.1%, from July 2025, providing another positive indicator that fewer residents are experiencing extended periods without employment.

Diverse Industries Fuel Regional Opportunity

The Rural Capital Area's economic strength continues to be supported by a broad mix of industries. Private employers account for 85.4% of regional employment, while education and health services represent the largest industry sector at 22.5%, followed by trade, transportation and utilities at 21.3%.

Several industries posted strong year-over-year employment gains, including construction at 9.1%, public administration at 4.5%, education and health services at 4.2%, manufacturing at 3.9%, financial activities at 3.5%, and leisure and hospitality at 3%. This diversity creates opportunities across skill levels and career pathways while helping the regional economy remain resilient as industries evolve.

Looking ahead, TWC projections point to continued expansion in many of the industries shaping the Central Texas economy. Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing is projected to grow 367.6% from 2024 to 2034, with significant growth also projected in scientific research and development, education, computer systems design, engineering construction and healthcare.

WSRCA partners with employers, educators, economic development organizations and community leaders to strengthen workforce pipelines, expand access to education and training, and connect Central Texans with career opportunities across the nine-county Rural Capital Area.

Residents seeking employment or training services are encouraged to visit www.workforcesolutionsrca.com, explore careers and training pathways through Career Ready Central Texas, or search current opportunities at www.workintexas.com.

Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. All estimates are subject to revision. To access this and more employment data, visit texaslmi.com.

*All unemployment rates listed are not seasonally adjusted.

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About Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA)

WSRCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community partnership and the certified workforce authority for the nine-county Rural Capital Area of Central Texas, which includes Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Llano, and Williamson counties. WSRCA strengthens regional prosperity by connecting people, employers, and opportunities through no-cost services such as career coaching, training in high-demand fields, child care tuition scholarships, hiring events, and labor market insights. By equipping residents with skills for career success and providing employers with tailored workforce solutions, WSRCA helps ensure the region remains competitive, resilient, and ready for growth.