Houston, TX – Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is highlighting what he called another major milestone for the state’s economy, after Texas reached a record high of 14,403,500 nonfarm jobs, according to new labor market data.
Abbott said the latest numbers show Texas continues to outperform other states in job creation, crediting the state’s business climate and workforce development efforts for sustained economic growth.
“Texas is where free enterprise flourishes and jobs grow,” Abbott said. “Year after year, our state sets new records because we believe in hard work, cutting burdensome regulations, and the power of capitalism.”
State data shows Texas added 46,800 nonfarm jobs in March alone, pushing total employment to a new record level. Over the past year, from March 2025 to March 2026, the state added 117,200 jobs, outpacing national annual job growth rates, according to figures from the Texas Workforce Commission.
Officials also reported that total employment, including self-employed workers, reached 15,236,600 Texans working statewide. The overall labor force rose to 15,916,600 after gaining 82,200 people over the past 12 months, signaling continued population and workforce expansion.
State records also indicate that Texas has added nearly 2.6 million jobs since January 2015, when Abbott took office, underscoring long-term job growth trends across multiple industries.
The Texas Workforce Commission data points to continued strength in sectors such as professional services, manufacturing, health care, and construction, all contributing to the state’s expanding employment base.
Abbott has repeatedly emphasized workforce development as a key part of Texas’ economic strategy, tying job growth to education and training programs designed to prepare workers for high-demand industries.
Last week, Abbott also spoke at Texas State University, where he highlighted the university’s Concrete Industry Management program. He said the program helps connect students directly to careers in the construction and infrastructure sectors, supporting employers seeking skilled labor.
He described such programs as essential to maintaining Texas’ competitive advantage, especially as companies continue relocating or expanding operations in the state.
Economic officials have said Texas’ job growth is being driven by a combination of strong business investment, population growth, and an expanding labor force that continues to attract employers from across the country.
State leaders say they expect continued job gains throughout the year, as Texas maintains its position as one of the fastest-growing labor markets in the United States.
