OLYMPIA—Washington’s economy decreased by an estimated 14,500 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in September 2025, and the monthly unemployment rate remained at 4.5%.

September employment numbers were delayed because of the six-week federal government shutdown, which took place October 1 to November 12, 2025. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics did not collect October employment information during the shutdown. Employment Security’s November 2025 report is scheduled for release in early January 2026.

“Job growth in September disappointed for the second consecutive month, pointing to a weakening labor market,” said Paul Turek, labor economist at the Employment Security Department. “More major industries shed jobs than gained during the month, although the unemployment rate remains stable for now

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