News

CEDAR PARK, Texas – May 2026 labor market data released by the Texas Workforce Commission shows continued economic momentum across the nine-county Rural Capital Area, with more residents entering the labor force, employment increasing, and opportunity expanding throughout the region.

More Residents Join the Labor Force

The Rural Capital Area labor force reached 752,949 in May, an increase of 8,291 people over the year and 2,388 from April. Employment climbed to 725,584, adding 5,815 employed residents over the year and 783 over the month. These gains reflect the strength of a regional economy that attracts talent, investment, and new opportunities.

Opportunity Expands Across All Nine Counties

Economic momentum continued across Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Llano, and Williamson counties, with every county recording year-over-year labor force gains as more residents entered the workforce. While Williamson and Hays counties accounted for much of the region's expansion, communities throughout the Rural Capital Area also contributed to rising participation, underscoring a regional economy where opportunity and prosperity extend beyond the area's largest population centers.

"The Rural Capital Area continues to attract people seeking opportunity and a high quality of life," said Paul Fletcher, CEO of Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA). "We're seeing more residents enter the labor force, more people finding jobs, and opportunity expanding across all nine counties. That's a strong sign that our regional economy remains healthy, competitive, and positioned for continued success."

A Competitive Labor Market

The region's unemployment rate measured 3.6% in May, up slightly from 3.4% in April. However, the increase coincided with continued labor force expansion as more residents entered the job market. The Rural Capital Area's unemployment rate remained below both the Texas rate of 4.3% and the national rate of 4.1%.

As more residents enter the labor force, modest increases in the unemployment rate can reflect a growing number of people actively seeking opportunities rather than a slowdown in hiring.

Strong Economic Fundamentals

Several indicators point to continued economic strength across the region. Continued unemployment claims declined from a year ago, suggesting fewer workers are experiencing extended periods without employment. Average weekly wages reached $1,405, a 3.4% increase compared to the previous year.

The region's economy also remains highly diversified. Private employers account for more than 85% of all jobs, with strong employment concentrations in trade, transportation and utilities, education and health services, professional and business services, construction, and leisure and hospitality.

Industries Continue to Drive Momentum

Long-term projections continue to position the Rural Capital Area among the state's most dynamic economic regions. Semiconductor manufacturing, computer systems design, consulting services, professional services, and advanced manufacturing rank among the fastest-growing industries and are expected to help fuel future job creation and investment.

WSRCA partners with employers, educators, economic development organizations, and community leaders to strengthen workforce pipelines, expand access to training and employment opportunities, and support long-term regional prosperity.

Residents seeking employment or training services are encouraged to visit www.workforcesolutionsrca.com, or explore opportunities through 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.