Arkansas Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 3.7% in May as Job Growth Hits Record Levels

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Arkansas’ job market held firm in May, with the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remaining unchanged at 3.7% for the third straight month, according to new data released today by the Arkansas Department of Commerce and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The national unemployment rate also stayed steady at 4.2%.

Despite the flat jobless rate, the state's labor force and employment numbers both reached record highs. In May, Arkansas’ civilian labor force expanded by 615, while the number of employed Arkansans rose by 658. The slight increases were not enough to alter the unemployment rate but reflect continued economic stability.

Compared to May 2024, the state has added 12,386 employed workers, although the number of unemployed individuals has also risen by 4,701. The net effect contributed to an increase in the labor force participation rate by 0.2 percentage points over the year.

Nonfarm Payroll Jobs Reach All-Time High

Arkansas saw a significant boost in nonfarm payroll employment in May, adding 3,400 jobs for a new total of 1,388,500 — a record high for the state. Gains were recorded across six major industry sectors, led by Leisure and Hospitality, which added 4,000 jobs largely due to seasonal hiring patterns.

Year-over-year data shows a strong upward trend, with total payroll employment up by 19,100 jobs since May 2024.

Key industries driving this growth include:

• Private Education and Health Services (+8,900)

• Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (+5,300)

• Manufacturing (+2,400)

• Leisure and Hospitality (+2,300)

Construction was the only major sector to post an annual decline, shedding 2,000 jobs, which officials attribute to the wrap-up of several large-scale building projects.

The continued growth in employment and record-setting labor force participation underscore Arkansas' ongoing economic resilience. While the increase in job seekers has slightly raised the unemployment count, the parallel rise in overall employment and job availability indicates a balanced and healthy labor market.

For more detailed statistics, visit the Arkansas Department of Commerce or the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics websites.