State-Level Construction Employment Data for January

A closer look at the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) January 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 40 states in January. Meanwhile, nine states reported job losses, and New Hampshire and the District of Columbia saw no change.

Overall, the construction industry added a net 45,000 jobs in January. Illinois posted the largest gain, adding 13,500 construction jobs, while Idaho recorded the largest loss, shedding 3,400. On a percentage basis, West Virginia led with a 5.9% increase, while Idaho experienced the steepest decline at 4.4%.

Compared to a year ago, US construction employment rose by 53,000 jobs, a 0.6% increase. Texas saw the largest year-over-year gain, adding 30,100 jobs, while California posted the largest loss, down 45,400. West Virginia led all states in percentage growth, with construction employment rising 15.0%, while Oregon had the sharpest percentage decline at 3.4%.