Navigating a Competitive Labor Market
The Panhandle’s unemployment rate edged up to 3.7% in August but remains well below the Texas average of 4.7%. Compared to last year, the region has added 2,734 jobs, led by growth in education, healthcare, and logistics. Demand remains strong for registered nurses and truck drivers. Employers can tap into Workforce Solutions Panhandle’s training grants and hiring events to meet staffing needs and retain top talent.
Amarillo (City) Labor Market Highlights
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Unemployment Rate: Rose to 3.5% in August 2025, up from 3.2% in July.
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Labor Force: Expanded by 880 people over the past year, now totaling 105,779 (compared to 104,899 in August 2024).
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Employment: Increased by 676 positions, climbing from 101,351 to 102,027, reflecting steady job growth.
What this means to Employers: With the labor market continuing to tighten, offering competitive pay and benefits is increasingly important. Programs like mentorship opportunities and cross-training not only help attract skilled candidates but also strengthen employee engagement and retention.
Panhandle WDA at a Glance
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Unemployment Rate: Increased slightly to 3.7% in August 2025, remaining well below the Texas rate of 4.7%.
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Labor Force: Expanded by 3,068 workers, now at 215,579 (compared to 212,511 in August 2024).
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Employment: Added 2,734 jobs, increasing from 204,872 to 207,606, signaling continued job growth in the region.
What this means to Employers: The expanding labor force means more potential qualified candidates, but the competition for top talent is heating up. Partnering with Workforce Solutions Panhandle for job fairs and industry-specific candidate screening can give your business an edge in securing skilled workers.
Texas Labor Market Snapshot
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Unemployment Rate: Increased by 0.3 percentage points over the year, from 4.4% in August 2024 to 4.7% in August 2025, reflecting current economic conditions.
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Labor Force: Expanded by 209,323 workers, reaching 15,885,187 (up from 15,675,864 a year ago).
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Employment: Grew by 165,781 jobs, bringing statewide employment to 15,144,613.
Big Picture: Texas’ expanding economy continues to generate diverse hiring opportunities. Employers can maximize their reach by posting job opening on WorkInTexas.com and connecting with the Workforce Solutions Panhandle Business Services team for support tailored to your recruitment needs.
All Texas Panhandle Counties
Area Wage Insights
Wages in Amarillo and the Panhandle WDA reflect a competitive job market. Using Q1 2025 data, we’ve outlined hourly and yearly earnings to guide your compensation strategies.
Amarillo (City) Wage Highlights
- Average Hourly Wage: $29.60
- Average Yearly Wage: $61,568
Panhandle WDA Wage Highlights
- Average Hourly Wage: $29.13
- Average Yearly Wage: $60,590
Competitive wages are critical in a low-unemployment environment (3.5% in Amarillo, 3.7% in WDA).
Contact the Business Services Team at businessservices@wspanhandle.com for occupation-specific wage data.
Amarillo MSA Job Growth
The Amarillo MSA achieved a 0.3% annual job growth rate in August 2025, below the Texas average of 1.1% and tied with Wichita Falls (0.3%). Growth is led by healthcare, retail, and logistics.
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.
Amarillo MSA Rankings
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Unemployment Rate Ranking: Amarillo ranks 1st (tied) lowest at 3.6% among Texas MSAs, tied with Midland and San Angelo.
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Monthly Job Growth Ranking: Amarillo ranks 24th with a -0.2% change (-300 jobs), reflecting a dip but still remaining competitive.
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Annual Job Growth Ranking: Amarillo ranks 25th (tied) with a 0.3% growth rate, adding 400 jobs, below the Texas average of 1.1%.
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.
UPCOMING EVENTS
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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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Shannon L. Rowell
Business Services Representative
Workforce Solutions Panhandle
(806) 350-1660
srowell@wspanhandle.com
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