Tennessee Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 3.6%

Tennessee’s unemployment rate remained steady at 3.6% in August, according to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The state’s rate continues to track well below the national rate of 4.3%. Total nonfarm employment in Tennessee increased by 9,500 jobs from July to August, with the largest gains in transportation, warehousing, utilities, retail trade, and construction. Over the past year, employers added 34,400 jobs, led by growth in government, professional and business services, and leisure and hospitality. September marks Workforce Development Month, recognizing programs and professionals that support workforce training and economic growth. The 33-member State Workforce Development Board advises the governor on workforce policy and investments in training programs to strengthen Tennessee’s talent pipeline. Meetings of the board are held quarterly, open to the public, and livestreamed on YouTube. Tennessee will release county-level unemployment data for all 95 counties on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. CDT.