Comptroller Don Huffines Lauds Texas Job Growth, which Continues to Surpass National Trends

September 18, 2026

AUSTIN) - Texas Comptroller Don Huffines today applauded the state's most recent employment report data, which affirmed that Texas continues to outpace national trends, adding 159,000 nonfarm jobs between August 2025 and August 2026.

According to data from the Texas Workforce Commission and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , Texas' workforce grew by 1.1% during those 12 months, outpacing the national annual job growth rate by 0.7 percentage points.

"Texas' economy continues to show remarkable strength, with job growth that once again outpaces national trends," Huffines said. "Even as individual industries rise and fall month to month, the broader picture is clear: Texas is powering forward with a vibrant, fast - moving economy fueled by strong free - market principles.

"I'm confident that we can keep this momentum going while advancing meaningful property tax relief that lowers housing costs and lets Texans hold on to more of their hard - earned money. These efforts will help families, workers, and businesses thrive - and keep Texas positioned for even greater success."

The Leisure and Hospitality industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in August after adding 4,900 jobs. Professional and Business Services added 4,500 jobs over the month while Manufacturing added 2,200.

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.4%, down from 4.5% in last month's report.