Navigating a Competitive Labor Market
In May 2025, the Panhandle WDA continued to demonstrate labor market strength with a 3.2% unemployment rate, slightly above Amarillo’s 3.0% and below the Texas average of 4.0%. Compared to the previous year, regional employment grew by 3,069 jobs, driven by steady gains in education, healthcare, and logistics. Demand remains high for registered nurses and truck drivers, signaling ongoing workforce needs in essential industries. Workforce Solutions Panhandle supports employers through strategic services, including training grants and recruitment events, to develop and retain skilled talent across the region.
Amarillo (City) Labor Market Highlights
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Unemployment Rate: A slight uptick in the unemployment rate to 3.0%, up from 2.7% in April.
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Labor Force: Expanded by 2,689 workers over the year, reaching 106,448 (up from 103,759 in May 2024).
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Employment: Rose by 2,435 jobs, increasing from 100,807 to 103,242, signaling continued hiring momentum across industries.
Employer Tip: Boost retention and engagement by implementing mentorship and cross-training programs that support employee development and career advancement. These strategies appeal to job seekers looking for long-term growth and stability.
Panhandle WDA at a Glance
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Unemployment Rate: A modest rise in the unemployment rate to 3.2%, up from 2.8% in April, but still remains below the Texas average of 4.0%.
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Labor Force: Grew by 3,544 workers over the year, reaching 214,997 in May 2025 (from 211,453 in May 2024).
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Employment: Increased by 3,069 jobs, rising from 205,117 to 208,186, highlighting ongoing job creation across the region.
What It Means: The expanding labor force signals a strong talent pool, though employers face increased competition for skilled workers. Workforce Solutions Panhandle can help you stay ahead with customized recruitment strategies, including job fairs and candidate screening services tailored to your industry needs.
Texas Labor Market Snapshot
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Unemployment Rate: Eased to 3.7% in April 2025 from 4.0% in March, signaling a robust economy.
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Labor Force: Grew by 398,692 workers over the year, reaching 15,922,661 in April 2025 (up from 15,523,969 in April 2024).
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Employment: Increased by 362,613 jobs, rising to 15,334,972 statewide.
Big Picture: Texas’ expanding economy creates diverse hiring opportunities. Use WorkInTexas.com to post openings and tap into TWC’s employer workshops to improve retention strategies, benefiting businesses of all sizes and industries.
Area Wage Insights
Wages in Amarillo and the Panhandle WDA reflect a competitive job market. Using Q4 2024 data, we’ve outlined hourly and yearly earnings to guide your compensation strategies.
Amarillo (City) Wage Highlights
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Average Hourly Wage: $25.82
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Average Yearly Wage: $53,696
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Total Wages Paid: $1,812,576,980 for 122,615 employees across 7,146 establishments
Panhandle WDA Wage Highlights
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Average Hourly Wage: $25.68
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Average Yearly Wage: $53,422
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Total Wages Paid: $3,030,840,720 for 196,647 employees across 12,500 establishments
These wages highlight the need for competitive pay to attract talent in a low-unemployment environment (3.0% in Amarillo, 3.2% in WDA, May 2025). For occupation-specific wage data, contact our Business Services Team at businessservices@wspanhandle.com.
Amarillo MSA Job Growth
The Amarillo MSA recorded a 1.9% annual job growth rate in May 2025, outpacing the Texas average of 1.5% and surpassing neighboring metros like Abilene (0.8%) and Lubbock (1.3%). This steady growth highlights Amarillo’s position as a vital economic hub in the Panhandle, with industries like healthcare, retail, and logistics continuing to drive expansion.
In a competitive labor market, standing out is essential. Implementing employee recognition programs or offering professional development opportunities can boost retention and attract skilled workers. For customized insights into the occupations fueling local growth, contact Workforce Solutions Panhandle’s Business Services Unit or visit WorkInTexas.com to explore tools that keep your business competitive.
For a deeper look at which industries are driving growth, our Business Services Unit can provide occupation-specific data tailored to your needs. Reach out to our Business Services Team for more information.
WorkInTexas.com
Looking for a better way to find your next hire? WorkInTexas.com is here for you. This free tool connects you with qualified job seekers in your area. Posting jobs is easy, and our Employment Services team is ready to assist you every step of the way. Give us a call at (806) 372-5521 to get started today!
Resources for Employers
Take advantage of our recruitment and training services to address staffing needs. Learn more about hiring incentives, upskilling programs, and other workforce resources by visiting our website.
For more information or assistance, contact Workforce Solutions Panhandle today.
Dear Texas Panhandle Employer,
The We Hire Vets program recognizes Texas employers who demonstrate a strong commitment to hiring veterans.
Does your company employ veterans? If at least 10% of your employees are veterans, your business is eligible to receive a We Hire Vets storefront decal and a digital badge for your website.
If you have previously received this recognition, please re-enroll for 2025 to maintain your participation.
Sign up today and be recognized at the Texas Workforce Commission’s Texas Conference for Employers on Friday, May 9th.
To get started, contact Anthony at 806-282-1146 or email him at anthony.torres@twc.texas.gov. Provide the following details:
- Nominator Name
- Email Address
- Phone Number
- Cell Number
- Employer Name
- Address
- TWC Tax Account Number
- Total number of employees in Texas
- Total number of employees in Texas who are veterans
- Percentage of veterans working for the employer in Texas
- Point of Contact Name
- Point of Contact Email Address
- Point of Contact Phone Number
Explore the list of other participating employers here:
We Hire Vets Participants.
We appreciate your support and look forward to recognizing your organization’s commitment to hiring veterans.
Thank you,
Workforce Solutions Panhandle
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Questions? Contact Us
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