Department of Numbers

Washington Unemployment

According to the BLS current population survey (CPS), the unemployment rate for Washington rose 0.2 percentage points in October 2023 to 3.8%. The state unemployment rate was 0.1 percentage points lower than the national rate for the month. The unemployment rate in Washington peaked in April 2020 at 16.6% and is now 12.8 percentage points lower. From a post peak low of 3.6% in July 2023, the unemployment rate has now grown by 0.2 percentage points. You can also see Washington unemployment compared to other states.

Unemployment Rate October 2023 Month/Month Year/Year
National 3.9% +0.1 +0.2
Washington 3.8% +0.2 -0.8

Unemployment Rate: Washington, National

Washington monthly unemployment rate chart from 1990 to October 2023

Note: Recessions shown in gray

Washington Unemployed

The number of people unemployed in Washington peaked in April 2020 at 671,176. There are now 517,650 fewer people unemployed in the state. From a recent trough of 145,895 in August 2023, the number of unemployed has now grown by 7,631. Washington job growth data is also available.

Unemployed Persons October 2023 Month/Month Year/Year
Washington 153,526 +6,592 -29,557

Number of Unemployed Persons

Monthly chart of total unemployed in Washington from 1990 to October 2023

Washington Unemployment History

Date National
Unemployment Rate
Washington
Unemployment Rate
Washington
Unemployed
October 2023 3.9% 3.8% 153,526
September 2023 3.8% 3.6% 146,934
August 2023 3.8% 3.6% 145,895
July 2023 3.5% 3.6% 147,381
June 2023 3.6% 3.8% 154,358
May 2023 3.7% 4.1% 164,997
April 2023 3.4% 4.3% 174,456
March 2023 3.5% 4.5% 180,382
February 2023 3.6% 4.6% 185,457
January 2023 3.4% 4.6% 184,387
December 2022 3.5% 4.5% 182,517
November 2022 3.6% 4.6% 183,636