Oregon Unemployment Rate Dipped to 5.0% in September
The state added 5,800 nonfarm jobs, shifting labor market trends for Oregon workers and businesses.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Employment
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Oregon saw its unemployment rate drop to 5.0% in September 2026, down slightly from 5.1% in August. This improvement coincided with an increase of 5,800 nonfarm payroll jobs across the state.
Why it matters
Changes in local employment levels impact household income stability and the availability of open positions for job seekers. Tracking these shifts provides a clearer picture of current economic conditions across the state.
The unemployment rate in Oregon reached 5.0% in September, a marginal decrease from 5.1% in August. During the same period, nonfarm payrolls grew by 5,800 jobs, outpacing the 2,600 positions added in the prior month.
The details
The state's job growth was largely fueled by a 2,000-job increase in construction and a 1,700-job gain in health care and social assistance. Conversely, the retail trade sector experienced a contraction, losing 1,500 jobs during September. These sector-specific shifts determine which industries are currently hiring and where workers might find the most opportunity for new employment.
Timeline
August 2026: Oregon unemployment rate was 5.1%.
September 2026: Oregon unemployment rate was 5.0%.
Money Landscape
Oregon's labor market continues to evolve as the state navigates shifting employment totals compared to the broader U.S. economy. Current figures reflect a persistent gap between state-level performance and the national unemployment benchmark of 4.2%.
Job seekers should note the growth in construction and healthcare sectors when assessing current opportunities in the local labor market. Households should consult with a financial professional to understand how local unemployment shifts may impact regional economic stability.
The takeaway
The modest decline in the unemployment rate highlights a period of uneven growth across different industries. Readers should review local hiring trends and, for individualized career or financial planning, consult with a qualified financial or tax professional.
Further reading
For more on how shifts in local payroll data affect the state economy, see our full coverage of Oregon Employment.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KVAL.
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