Washington state unemployment rate remains at 4.5.

Washington's economy experienced a growth of 10,800 jobs in July 2025, keeping the unemployment rate unchanged at 4. 5%. According to Anneliese Vance-Sherman, chief labor economist, this growth indicates a return to a trend of slowing job growth after an initial sluggish start to the year. The private sector was the primary contributor, adding 11,700 jobs, while the public sector saw a decline of 900 jobs. Notable employment increases were in leisure and hospitality, transportation, and manufacturing.

Employment Security reported that 64,181 individuals received unemployment benefits in July, with rising claims in education and health services. The state's labor force decreased by 8,300 from June to July, highlighting a shift in workforce participation. Over the past year, Washington gained 4,800 jobs, with a 0. 1% overall increase. The deepest sector losses occurred in construction, down 11,300 jobs, while education and health services saw an increase of 16,600 jobs.