Missouri’s job market continued to add positions in September 2025, signaling steady momentum for job seekers and employers across the state.
According to the latest Missouri Monthly Jobs Report from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), nonfarm payroll employment increased by 18,300 jobs in September. The statewide unemployment rate held steady at 4.1 percent, remaining below the national average.
For Missourians navigating career decisions or workforce planning, these numbers point to continued opportunity—especially in service industries and public sector employment.
Job Growth Across Missouri Continues
Missouri’s total nonfarm payroll employment reached 3,041,200 jobs in September 2025. That figure reflects an upward revision to August data and reinforces a positive trend heading into the fall.
Monthly employment highlights include:
- Private industry added 4,400 jobs
- Government employment increased by 13,900 jobs
- Goods-producing industries saw a modest net gain, with manufacturing growth offset by declines in construction-related sectors
Private service-providing industries posted the strongest gains overall, led by:
- Professional and business services (+4,400)
- Trade, transportation, and utilities (+1,100)
- Financial activities (+700)
- Leisure and hospitality (+500)
The primary monthly decline occurred in private education and health services, which shed 3,500 jobs.
Strong Year-Over-Year Employment Gains
Compared to September 2024, Missouri added 48,900 jobs statewide over the past year.
Industries with the largest annual growth included:
- Private education and health services (+15,500)
- Leisure and hospitality (+12,000)
- Construction-related industries (+2,100)
- Other services (+1,700)
Government employment also grew significantly, adding 29,200 jobs, driven largely by gains at the local and state levels.
Some sectors experienced year-over-year declines, including manufacturing, information, and professional services—highlighting where reskilling and workforce supports may be most important.
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Missouri’s Unemployment Rate Remains Below the Nation
Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 4.1 percent in September 2025. While slightly higher than one year ago, the rate continues to outperform the national average of 4.4 percent.
Additional labor force indicators show Missouri maintaining a strong workforce position:
- Labor force participation rate: 63.7% (national rate: 62.4%)
- Employment-population ratio: 61% (national rate: 59.7%)
- Missouri’s unemployment rate has been at or below the national rate for more than 10 years
The estimated number of unemployed Missourians in September was 131,808.
What This Means for Job Seekers and Employers
September’s data shows a stable labor market with continued hiring, particularly in service industries and public sector roles. For job seekers, this is a good time to explore training, career transitions, or new opportunities. For employers, the data underscores the importance of recruitment, retention, and workforce development partnerships.
Withing the Central Workforce Development Region, we use labor market data like this to guide:
- Career services for job seekers
- Talent strategies for employers
- Training and education investments across our communities
Data Release Note
Publication of September data was delayed due to a federal government shutdown that impacted the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. October data will not be released, and future publication schedules will be announced by BLS.
To view the full September 2025 Missouri Job Report, click here.
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