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CEDAR PARK, Texas – New January 2026 labor market data released by the Texas Workforce Commission shows continued growth across the nine-county Rural Capital Area, with rising workforce participation and steady employment gains signaling expanding opportunity.

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The labor force grew to 746,551 residents, up 5,842 over the year, while employment reached 718,069, an increase of 3,908 compared to January 2025. More residents are entering the job market and finding work, reinforcing the region’s strong and competitive economy.

The region’s unemployment rate was 3.8% in January, consistent with seasonal trends following holiday hiring and increased workforce participation at the start of the year. The rate remains well below the state at 4.5% and the national rate at 4.7%, underscoring the strength of the regional labor market.

Regional Economic Trends

Growth in both labor force participation and employment reflects a strong and expanding regional economy. Key industries continue to show momentum, including construction, which grew 6.5% year over year, financial activities at 5.1%, and leisure and hospitality at 4.0%. These gains highlight broad-based expansion and diverse opportunities across the region.

Wages are also rising, with average weekly earnings reaching $1,341 in Q3 2025, up $60 over the year. This trend reflects strong demand for workers and increasing value for skills across industries.

Workforce activity remained steady in January. Continued unemployment insurance claims showed only a slight increase over the year, indicating most workers are staying employed while transitioning into new opportunities.

Looking ahead, long-term projections point to significant expansion in high-demand industries through 2032. Semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing leads projected growth, followed by computer systems design and scientific and technical consulting. These sectors are expected to drive innovation and create high-skill, high-wage career opportunities.

Expanding Access to Opportunity

Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area 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.