Nevada Economy Continues to Move in the Right Direction with Nation-Leading Job Growth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 17, 2026

LAS VEGAS, NV - Nevada’s economy continues to show strong progress with New data from the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation (DETR), reported in the Las Vegas Sun, showing the fastest annual job growth rate in the nation and continued expansion across key sectors. “This month’s report shows a strengthening labor market,” said DETR Chief Economist David Schmidt, noting Nevada’s continued leadership in job growth nationwide.

Some key takeaways:

Nevada added 34,500 jobs over the past year, representing a 2.2% increase in total employment—well above the national growth rate of 0.1%.
Total nonfarm employment reached 1,605,200 jobs, marking steady monthly gains and reinforcing the state’s economic trajectory.
The state’s labor force participation rate rose to 63.7%, exceeding the national average by 1.7 percentage points, a signal of growing workforce engagement and confidence in Nevada’s job market.
Nevada’s labor force expanded by 3,829 individuals in February, with nearly 3,000 additional Nevadans entering employment.
Initial unemployment insurance claims declined by 16.9% month-over-month, signaling improved stability in the labor market and fewer layoffs.

Key industries driving growth include:

Leisure and Hospitality: +1,600 jobs
Construction: +1,000 jobs
Education and Health Services (Las Vegas MSA): +7,600 jobs year-over-year
Professional and Business Services (Las Vegas MSA): +7,400 jobs year-over-year

Nevada’s largest metro areas also demonstrated strong performance:

Las Vegas MSA reached an all-time high of 1,172,900 jobs, with 25,100 jobs added year-over-year
Reno-Sparks MSA added 6,300 jobs year-over-year

Under Governor Joe Lombardo’s leadership, Nevada has prioritized policies focused on economic growth, workforce development, and reducing regulatory burdens - helping to create an environment where businesses can expand and Nevadans have access to high-quality jobs. While Nevada’s unemployment rate remains at 5.3%, slightly above the national average, it reflects a modest improvement from the previous year and coincides with increased labor force participation.

“Today’s report underscores what we are seeing across Nevada: more jobs, more opportunity, and an economy that is moving in the right direction. Governor Lombardo’s focus on growing the workforce, diversifying the economy, and creating opportunities is delivering real results for Nevada workers. While there is more work to be done, this data reflects meaningful progress and a strong foundation for continued growth.” - Halee Dobbins, Spokeswoman for Joe Lombardo for Governor campaign

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