LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (July 18, 2025) — Today, the Arkansas Department of Commerce, in conjunction with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, announced Arkansas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained stable at 3.7% between May and June. The United States’ jobless rate declined one-tenth of a percentage point, from 4.2% in May to 4.1% in June.
Arkansas Civilian Labor Force Summary:
- Arkansas’ civilian labor force and employment both increased slightly in June to remain at record high levels. The number of unemployed Arkansans actively seeking work increased 419. The State’s unemployment rate remained at 3.7% for a fourth consecutive month.
- Compared to June 2024, employment in Arkansas is up 10,049. There are 4,886 more unemployed Arkansans and the unemployment rate is up three-tenths of a percentage point. The growth in the size of the civilian labor force pushed the labor force participation rate up by two-tenths of a percentage point over the year.
Arkansas Nonfarm Payroll Job Summary:
- Arkansas’ nonfarm payroll jobs decreased by 3,600 in June, reflecting typical seasonal declines. Jobs in Government decreased 7,200, related to the start of summer break at public schools and universities. Hiring was reported in Leisure and Hospitality (+1,500) and in Manufacturing (+1,300).
- Compared to June 2024, nonfarm payroll jobs in the State are up 24,900. The largest gains occurred in Private Education and Health Services (+12,200), Trade-Transportation-Utilities (+5,200), Leisure and Hospitality (+4,400), and Manufacturing (+2,500).
