Oregon Unemployment Rate Holds Steady Amid Job Losses

Oregon's unemployment rate remained steady in August at 5.1%, mirroring July's rate of 5.2%. The state has been hovering within a narrow range between 5.0% and 5.3% for the past 18 months, dating back to March 2025.

A decline in nonfarm payroll employment was reported in August, with a loss of 800 jobs. This follows a revised loss of 1,800 jobs in July, with the largest drop seen in professional and business services (-1,100 jobs).

On a more positive note, construction added 700 jobs, while retail trade saw a gain of 500 jobs. However, health care and social assistance continued its growth trend over the past four years, adding 10,200 jobs, or 3.2%, in the past 12 months.