Washington state unemployment rate increases slightly in February to 4.4

Washington state's economy encountered challenges in February 2025, with a loss of approximately 7,200 jobs and the unemployment rate rising slightly to 4. 4%. Chief labor economist Anneliese Vance-Sherman indicated that job growth has been slowing, with significant layoffs in both private and public sectors expected to be reflected in future employment reports. Despite these monthly losses, the state has added 39,000 jobs over the past year, a 1. 1% increase, showcasing a degree of resilience.

Noteworthy job gains occurred in transportation, warehousing, and retail trade, each adding 1,900 jobs. Employment Security reported a decrease in unemployment claims, down to 77,355, as fewer people in sectors like construction and manufacturing sought assistance. The article also highlights revisions to January's job loss estimates, which improved from 10,400 to just 400. The national unemployment rate also saw a slight increase, moving from 4. 0% to 4.

1% during the same period. Overall, while the month-to-month data presents concerns, the broader annual trends suggest a more stable labor market in Washington.