RICHMOND, VA -?Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced continued strength in Virginia's workforce, as reflected in the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Virginia's labor force increased by 3,327 in November to 4,578,676, with a labor force participation rate of 66.0 percent, a reflection of optimism among residents reentering the job market. According to the BLS Current Employment Statistics (“CES” or “the establishment survey”), nonfarm payroll employment rose by 5,300 in November, bringing total nonfarm jobs to 4,260,100, an increase of 72,800 jobs in the last year.  

“As a result of the work we’ve done together, Virginia is growing. The growth in nonfarm payroll employment, coupled with strong labor participation and low unemployment, shows that Virginia’s economy remains strong,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “We continue to see more companies, jobs, and families choosing to call Virginia home. Our administration remains focused on creating opportunities, reducing costs, and fostering an environment where every Virginian can thrive.” 

The CES survey uses payroll records of establishment employers and is designed to provide a count of jobs under which the employer pays unemployment insurance. Including the 5,300 added in November, Virginia has added 257,200 jobs since January 2022. According to BLS Local Area Unemployment Statistics (“LAUS,” derived from the Current Population Survey, or “the household survey,” and well as employer reports), the number of employed residents in Virginia remained essentially unchanged, decreasing by 104 to 4,441,643.  

“Virginia's unemployment rate remains one of the lowest in the nation, a testament to the strength of our workforce and the resilience of our labor market,” said Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater. “Virginia’s unemployment rate remains stable, and we are confident that our ongoing efforts to connect job seekers with high-quality employment opportunities will ensure long-term prosperity for workers across the Commonwealth.”  

The labor force participation rate measures the proportion of the civilian population age 16 and older that is employed or actively looking for work. Virginia's labor force increased by 3,327 in November to 4,578,676, with a labor force participation rate of 66.0 percent. Virginia’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in November increased by 0.1 percentage points to 3.0 percent, 0.1 percentage points below the rate from a year ago. This is 1.2 percentage points below the national rate, which increased by 0.1 percentage points to 4.2 percent. 

“The continued growth in nonfarm payroll employment demonstrates that Virginia remains a destination for businesses seeking top talent and a thriving economy,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “As we work to attract new investments and create high-quality jobs, our focus remains on empowering both employers and employees to succeed in every corner of the Commonwealth.” 

The LAUS data, based on household interviews and data from employers conducted each month for the Bureau of Labor Statistics, provides comprehensive data on the labor force, including those who are employed and unemployed. Establishment survey data reflects changes for updated seasonal adjustment factors, and industry classification conversions (NAICS), as part of the annual benchmarking process. 

The household survey only distinguishes between whether a person is employed or unemployed, whereas CES counts each employee that is on an employer’s payroll. CES excludes business owners, self-employed persons, unpaid volunteers and private household workers, and those on unpaid leave or not working because of a labor dispute.

For more details, visit the Department of Workforce Development and Advancement website at https://www.virginiaworks.gov.