Coastal Bend Builds Momentum as Job Growth Surges 

Regional Insights

Labor Force Trends

The civilian labor force in the Coastal Bend climbed to 266,437, gaining over 2,800 new individuals compared to March 2024. Employment also grew by 2,500 year-over-year, signaling the region’s ongoing ability to meet economic demands. Alongside a steady 4.3% unemployment rate, job growth continues to create opportunities for workforce advancement and skill development. 

Sectors Driving Growth

• Education and Health Services remain the largest employment sector in the region, accounting for 28.3% of the workforce. This sector saw steady year-over-year growth of 1.5%.
• Leisure and Hospitality experienced a 13.8% expansion regionally and a 0.8% increase in the Corpus Christi Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). Boosted by seasonal tourism and hospitality hiring.
• Trade, Transportation and Utilities  sector remains a key focus for long-term growth, with projections indicating significant expansion opportunities leading up to 2032, presenting substantial infrastructure development opportunities.

Wages and Opportunities

• The average weekly wage in the Coastal Bend rose to $1,096, a $46 increase compared to the previous year. While this marks progress, efforts continue to bridge the wage gap with state and national figures.
• Small and medium-sized enterprises remain a cornerstone of the local economy, with 82.1% of jobs anchored in the private sector—evidence of a thriving and entrepreneurial business landscape.
• As of March 2025, continued unemployment claims have remained steady year-over-year, adding only 255 new claimants for the year, reflecting a stable job transition rate.

Texas Labor Market Trends

26,500 ↑

Jobs Added Over the Month
Total Nonfarm Jobs – 14,282,600

192,100 ↑

Jobs Added Over the Year
(+1.4% Annual Growth Rate – Outpacing the National Growth Rate by .2%)

8,400 ↑

Monthly Civilian Labor Force Growth
New Record High – 15,778,500
(+301,400 People added over the year)

• Texas’ economy continued its strong performance in March, with the labor market achieving record highs in both total jobs and the size of the civilian labor force. Texas added 26,500 positions over the month to reach a total of 14,282,600 nonfarm jobs. The state added 192,100 jobs over the year, bringing the annual nonfarm growth rate to 1.4% which outpaced the national growth rate by 0.2 percentage points.
• Texas’ civilian labor force achieved another new record high of 15,778,500 after adding 8,400 people over the month, marking 57 of 59 months of growth. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 301,400 people.
• The state’s non-seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 4.3 % in March 2024 to 4.1% in March 2025, mirroring the broader economic adjustments observed nationally.

Why Workforce Solutions Coastal Bend?

Workforce Solutions Coastal Bend is dedicated to building a thriving community by providing accurate labor market data, tailored workforce development programs, and strategic partnerships with employers. Our commitment ensures job seekers are equipped with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed, while employers receive the support to grow their teams and businesses.

With detailed labor market reports, actionable insights, and innovative programs, we’re more than a resource—we’re a partner in progress for the Coastal Bend.

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With data-driven insights, you can identify emerging opportunities, you can stay competitive in today’s market. Let us help you make informed decisions—contact us today to request your custom labor market report!