News

CEDAR PARK, Texas – February 2026 labor market data released by the Texas Workforce Commission shows continued expansion across the nine-county Rural Capital Area, with both the labor force and employment increasing month over month and year over year. This sustained progress reflects a strong regional economy and workforce strategies designed to meet evolving industry needs.

Workforce Growth Accelerates

The region’s civilian labor force rose to 749,983, an increase of 3,216 over the month and 7,237 over the year. Employment climbed to 721,580, up 3,299 from January and 6,279 compared to February 2025, demonstrating continued success in connecting residents to available jobs.

“The Rural Capital Area continues to demonstrate the strength of a growing economy,” said Paul Fletcher, CEO of Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA). “As more residents enter the workforce, our focus remains on connecting talent to the real-time needs of industry, ensuring both businesses and job seekers can succeed.”

Regional Economic Trends

The unemployment rate in February held steady at 3.8%, reflecting a stable and competitive labor market that continues to absorb new workers.

Growth across the region remains broad-based, with all nine counties, Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Llano, and Williamson, contributing to increases in labor force participation and employment. Across urban and rural communities alike, this progress is supported by expanding industries, population growth, and coordinated workforce efforts.

A Competitive Regional Advantage

The Rural Capital Area continues to maintain a lower unemployment rate than both the state and nation, with Texas at 4.4% and the U.S. at 4.7%. This performance reflects the impact of high-performing, innovative workforce initiatives that are delivering results for job seekers and businesses alike.

Strategic investments in training, career pathways, and targeted support services are helping connect a growing talent pool to in-demand opportunities across the region, supporting continued economic strength.

Looking Ahead

As the workforce landscape continues to evolve, driven in part by advancements in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, the Rural Capital Area is focused on preparing talent for the jobs of today and tomorrow. WSRCA is expanding access to training, upskilling, and career pathways that align with changing industry needs.

Through continued collaboration with regional employers, educators, and community partners, WSRCA is working to ensure residents are equipped to succeed in a dynamic economy while supporting businesses as they adapt and grow.

Expanding Access to Opportunity

WSRCA delivers proven workforce solutions that connect residents and employers through weekly hiring events, no-cost training in high-demand fields, expert career coaching, child care tuition scholarships, and customized services for businesses.

These resources equip residents with the skills and support needed to secure employment and advance in their careers, while providing employers with access to a skilled, job-ready workforce that meets the evolving needs of the regional economy.

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.

Download and review and Full February 2026 Labor Market Report