Arkansas Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 3.7% in April; Employment Hits Record High

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The Arkansas Department of Commerce, in partnership with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, has announced that Arkansas' seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained unchanged at 3.7% from March to April 2025. This figure continues to reflect a strong and stable labor market in the state. Nationally, the U.S. unemployment rate also held steady at 4.2% for the same period.

In April, Arkansas’ civilian labor force grew by 1,519, with 1,406 more Arkansans becoming employed and 113 additional individuals entering the job market in search of work. This continued growth has led Arkansas to reach record-high levels of employment, while the labor force participation rate held firm at 58.4%.

On a year-over-year basis, the state has added 14,459 more employed individuals compared to April 2024. However, the number of unemployed Arkansans actively seeking work rose by 4,855, resulting in a modest three-tenths of a percentage point increase in the unemployment rate over the past year.

Arkansas’ nonfarm payroll employment climbed by 7,800 jobs in April, bringing the total to a new record high of 1,386,400 jobs statewide. Ten major industry sectors contributed to the month’s job growth. The largest increases occurred in:

• Professional and Business Services (+2,600)

• Leisure and Hospitality (+2,100)

• Government (+1,100)

• Construction (+1,000)

Over the past year, Arkansas has added 19,100 nonfarm payroll jobs, underscoring the resilience and momentum of the state’s economy. The following sectors experienced the most significant growth:

• Private Education and Health Services: +7,800

• Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: +6,000

• Professional and Business Services: +2,100

• Manufacturing: +1,700

With a steady unemployment rate and ongoing job growth across multiple industries, Arkansas continues to demonstrate a healthy labor market heading into the summer months. The combination of record employment levels and consistent labor force participation highlights the state’s economic stability and opportunity for job seekers and businesses alike.

For more information and detailed reports, visit the Arkansas Department of Commerce or the Bureau of Labor Statistics websites.