LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Jan. 27, 2026)— Today, the Arkansas Department of Commerce, in conjunction with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, announced Arkansas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose one-tenth of a percentage point, from 4.1% in November to 4.2% in December. The United States jobless rate declined to 4.4% in December.
Arkansas Civilian Labor Force Summary:
- The size of Arkansas’ civilian labor force increased by 5,162 in December to reach a record high of 1,444,246. Employment rose by 3,541, also reaching a record-high level. The number of unemployed Arkansans actively seeking work increased by 1,621, contributing to a rise in the state’s unemployment rate. Increased labor force activity caused growth in the labor force participation rate, which rose to 59.0% in December.
- Compared to December 2024, there are 16,467 more employed and 10,537 more unemployed Arkansans actively seeking work. The unemployment rate is up six-tenths of a percentage point over the year, while the labor force participation rate is up seven-tenths of a percentage point.
Arkansas Nonfarm Payroll Job Summary:
- Arkansas’ nonfarm payroll jobs rose by 1,400 in December to total 1,399,400. The largest increase occurred in Trade-Transportation-Utilities (+2,200), mostly due to gains in Retail Trade (+1,600) related to seasonal hiring for the holiday shopping season. Five other major industry sectors posted modest monthly gains.
- Compared to December 2024, nonfarm payroll jobs are up 16,200. Sizable expansions were reported in Leisure and Hospitality (+6,500), Private Education and Health Services (+5,900), Trade-Transportation-Utilities (+3,700), Professional and Business Services (+2,900), and Manufacturing (+1,800). The largest annual decline was in Construction (-2,200).
About The Arkansas Department of Commerce
The Arkansas Department of Commerce is the umbrella department for workforce and economic development drivers. Its divisions and regulatory boards include the Waterways Commission, Economic Development Commission, Division of Aeronautics, Workforce Connections, Reemployment, Office of Skills Development, State Bank Department, Insurance Department, Securities Department, and Development Finance Authority.