Unemployment Rates Hold Steady in US, Australia, OECD in April 2025

Unemployment rates in various U.S. states and regions, as well as internationally, remained largely stable in April 2025, with some areas experiencing slight job growth. Central Oregon saw a modest increase in total nonfarm employment, particularly in leisure, hospitality, and professional services, while experiencing losses in retail trade. Alabama's unemployment rate held steady at 3.3% in April, though it was higher than the previous year, with the labor force participation rate increasing slightly. Georgia's unemployment rate remained steady at 3.6% for the eleventh consecutive month, with job gains in sectors such as accommodation, food services, and transportation, despite declines in information and professional services. Australia's unemployment rate also remained unchanged at 4.1% in April, with employment growth led by women, particularly in full-time positions. Globally, the OECD reported a slight rise in unemployment to 4.9% in March, with stable rates across most countries and persistent gender and age disparities in employment rates.