LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (May 6, 2026) — Today, the Arkansas Department of Commerce, in conjunction with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, announced Arkansas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate declined one-tenth of a percentage point, from 4.4% in February to 4.3% in March. The United States’ jobless rate also decreased to 4.3% in March, down from 4.4% in February.
Arkansas Civilian Labor Force Summary
- The civilian labor force in Arkansas rose by 801 in March, a result of 1,118 more employed and 317 fewer unemployed Arkansans actively seeking work. Both the civilian labor force and employment reached record high levels. The unemployment rate declined between February and March, while the labor force participation rate was stable.
- Compared to March 2025, there are 19,997 more employed in the state. With 7,619 more unemployed actively seeking work, the unemployment rate is up four-tenths of a percentage point over the year. At 59.2%, Arkansas’ labor force participation rate is up seven-tenths of a percentage point.
Arkansas Nonfarm Payroll Job Summary
- Nonfarm payroll jobs in Arkansas increased 4,100 in March to total 1,341,200. Six major industry sectors posted job gains, which were largely seasonal. Notable increases occurred in Leisure and Hospitality (+3,000), Government (+1,000), and Construction (+800).
- Compared to March 2025, Arkansas’ nonfarm payroll jobs are up 2,800. Leisure and Hospitality (+3,600), Private Education and Health Services (+2,800), and Trade-Transportation-Utilities (+2,300) posted the largest annual growth. Declines occurred in Manufacturing (-2,100), Government (-1,700), and Financial Activities (-1,000).
Arkansas Civilian Labor Force (Seasonally Adjusted)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey. More information about the data is available at https://www.bls.gov/cps/definitions.htm
Arkansas Nonfarm Payroll Jobs (Not Seasonally Adjusted, In Thousands)
Source: Monthly Survey of Employers, based on 1st Quarter 2025 benchmark. March data are preliminary; February data are revised.
Seasonally Adjusted Unemployment Rates
Arkansas vs. United States (3-Year Comparison)
Data for October 2025 is not available due to a lapse in federal appropriations.
Job Gains/Losses by Major Industry Sectors
March 2025 to March 2026 (Not Seasonally Adjusted)
For more labor market data, visit www.discover.arkansas.gov.###