Missouri’s labor market exhibited robust growth in February 2025, with significant job additions across various sectors. The state’s nonfarm payroll employment rose by 12,500 jobs, maintaining the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate at 3.7 percent. Here’s a closer look at the key highlights from the Missouri February 2025 Monthly Jobs Report and what they mean for the state’s economic landscape.
Overview of Employment Growth
In February 2025, Missouri’s total nonfarm payroll employment reached 2,993,900, marking an increase of 12,500 jobs from the revised January figure. This uptick reflects a resilient economic environment despite a minor downward revision of 1,400 jobs from the initial January estimates. The private sector was particularly vibrant, adding 12,200 jobs, while government employment saw a modest increase of 300 jobs.
Sector-Specific Growth
Goods-producing industries led the job gains, with a total increase of 9,700 jobs over the month. Manufacturing was the standout, adding 9,300 jobs, likely driven by the return of workers following temporary shutdowns. The construction sector, along with mining and logging, also contributed with an additional 400 jobs.
On the services side, professional and business services, private education, health services, and information sectors showed positive movement, together adding 7,100 jobs. However, there were declines in leisure and hospitality, trade, transportation, utilities, and financial activities, which collectively shed 4,600 jobs.
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Government Employment Trends
Government employment rose by 300 jobs in February, with local government employment increasing by 700 jobs. However, this was offset by a reduction of 400 jobs in the federal government, indicating a shifting landscape in public sector employment.
Annual Employment Changes
Comparing year-over-year data, from February 2024 to February 2025, Missouri saw an overall increase of 10,300 jobs. Notable gains were observed in the private education and health services sectors, which added 19,300 jobs. Conversely, sectors such as leisure and hospitality and trade, transportation, and utilities experienced declines, shedding a combined total of 13,000 jobs.
Unemployment Rates
The smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Missouri remained stable at 3.7 percent in February 2025, a slight increase from February 2024’s rate of 3.5 percent. The estimated number of unemployed Missourians rose to 117,687, reflecting a small increase from January’s figures.
Missouri’s labor force participation rate stood at 63.3 percent, higher than the national average, underscoring a strong labor market presence among residents. The state’s employment-population ratio was also above the national figure, further highlighting Missouri’s robust employment landscape.
To view the full February 2025 Missouri Job Report, click here.
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