Once again, only a portion of the story is told
As of late 2025/early 2026, the highest unemployment rates are in D.C. (6.7%), California (5.5%), and New Jersey (5.4%), with major job losses in Washington, California, and Georgia. Major tech and manufacturing sectors drive these layoffs, with Washington facing significant tech layoffs and Michigan struggling with auto industry declines.
Key 2025–2026 Job Loss Trends by State:
Highest Unemployment Rates (Dec 2025p): District of Columbia (6.7%), California (5.5%), New Jersey (5.4%), Nevada (5.2%), Delaware (5.2%), and Oregon (5.2%).
Significant Total Job Losses (YTD 2025): Washington (303,778), California (158,734), and New York (81,701) experienced high job cuts.
Highest Rate of Job Losses (Q1 2025): The District of Columbia (5.8%), Georgia (5.7%), and Florida (5.5%) had the highest rates of gross job losses.
Key Sectors Affected: Washington is seeing massive layoffs in tech (Amazon, Meta, Microsoft) due to overhiring and AI efficiencies. Michigan's job losses are tied to a decline in auto manufacturing and increased automation.
Regional Trends: In January 2026, the highest insured unemployment rates were in NJ, RI, MA, MN, and WA.
Notable Declines: Georgia saw a massive, 338% year-over-year increase in job losses, reaching 78,049 YTD in late 2025.
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