Welcome to the Washington State Employment Security Department 

Supporting workers when they need it the most, and helping employers build their workforce

May 2026
Unemployment rate
Seasonally adjusted
5.2%
0.0%
May 2026
Total unemployment
Seasonally adjusted
212,412
92
May 2026
Payroll employment
Seasonally adjusted
3,637,500
10,600

Featured news

Posted on Jun. 17, 2026
Washington’s economy gained an estimated 10,600 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in May 2026 while the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 5.2%.
Posted on Jun. 10, 2026
Washington’s average annual wage grew by 4.9% in 2025 to $99,810, according to the Employment Security Department. The increase was driven by a 0.2% decrease in covered employment and a 4.7% increase in total earnings, which grew by nearly $15.7 billion.