State-Level Construction Employment Data for February

A closer look at the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) February nonfarm payroll report, with analysis by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), shows that construction sector employment—including both residential and nonresidential—rose in 22 states in February. Meanwhile, 27 states reported job losses, and one state and the District of Columbia saw no change.

Overall, the construction industry shed a net 13,000 jobs in February. Florida posted the largest gain, adding 1,100 construction jobs, while New Jersey recorded the largest loss, shedding 5,900. On a percentage basis, Montana led with a 1.3% increase, while Delaware experienced the steepest decline at 4.4%.

Compared to a year ago, US construction employment rose by 37,000 jobs, a 0.4% increase. Texas saw the largest year-over-year gain, adding 24,000 jobs, while California posted the largest loss, down 10,300. Montana led all states in percentage growth at 8.8%, while Alaska had the sharpest percentage decline at 5.6%.