The unemployment rate for Texas slipped to 4.1 percent in August -- the state's lowest jobless level since January 2001, the Texas Workforce Commission reported Friday.
Last month's jobless rate compares to a nationwide unemployment figure of 5.1 percent. Statewide unemployment held steady in June and July at 4.2 percent, according to commission figures.
Leisure and hospitality led all major industries in Texas with an expansion of 5,900 jobs in August. The professional and business services industry added 4,000 positions over the month, the commission said.
"The increase in jobs for key industries in August, such as the addition of 3,200 positions in the construction industry, and the decline in the unemployment rate to the lowest point in 14 years, demonstrates the resilience and strength of the Texas economy," said Andres Alcantar, commission chairman.
The Austin-Round Rock and Midland areas had the lowest unemployment in Texas last month at 3.2 percent. The McAllen-Edinburg-Mission region had the state's highest jobless rate at 7.9 percent, a TWC statement said.
"While most regions of our state are seeing these declines, we are working hard with our local workforce partners to address the needs in those regions that are still struggling," said Commissioner Ronny Congleton.
