WA ESD

Washington State Unemployment Rate Increased to 5.0% in January 2026

Washington's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 5.0% in January 2026, up from 4.9% in December 2025, representing the highest rate since 2021. The state economy added 2,800 jobs in January, while total nonfarm employment grew by 9,100 jobs (0.3%) over the year. Private sector jobs increased by 8,200 while public sector jobs decreased by an estimated 5,400.

County Unemployment Data for January 2026 Released

The Washington State Employment Security Department released county-level unemployment data for January 2026. The data includes unemployment rates for all Washington counties, with the department highlighting the North Central and Northwest regions where Chelan County reported 5.7% and Douglas County reported 6.4% unemployment. The department noted these rates are similar to the same period last year and highly seasonal due to the agricultural sector.

Washington Unemployment Rate Increased to 5.1% in February 2026

Washington ESD announced the state's unemployment rate rose to 5.1% in February 2026, the fourth consecutive monthly increase. The state added an estimated 700 jobs (seasonally adjusted) while unemployment claims decreased to 77,405 beneficiaries, down 8,129 from January. Total employment remains only 0.4% above February 2025 levels.