The Lead Off
- Indiana’s unemployment rate remained at 3.3% in May, according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
- The state’s labor force participation rate continues to exceed the national average.
- Private-sector employment increased by 3,800 jobs during the month, led by gains in construction and leisure & hospitality.
INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (WOWO) Indiana’s unemployment rate held steady at 3.3% in May 2026, according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
The report shows the national unemployment rate for May was 4.3%, placing Indiana below the national average. Officials also reported continued strength in the state’s labor force participation rate.
Labor force participation remains above national level
Indiana’s labor force participation rate stands at 63.2%, compared to the national rate of 61.8%, according to state data.
The Indiana Department of Workforce Development defines labor force participation as the percentage of residents age 16 and older who are either working or actively seeking employment.
The state’s total labor force is recorded at 3,489,693 people.
Private employment increases in May
State data shows total private employment in Indiana reached 2,843,000 in May, an increase of 3,800 jobs from April.
Several industries posted monthly gains, including:
- Construction (+1,800)
- Leisure & Hospitality (+1,700)
- Professional & Business Services (+1,500)
- Trade, Transportation & Utilities (+500)
- Manufacturing (+200)
Job postings and unemployment claims reported
As of May 31, 2026, there were 94,059 open job postings across the state, according to the report.
During the week ending June 6, 2026, Indiana recorded 19,068 continued unemployment insurance claims.
Next steps
State workforce officials are expected to continue monitoring employment trends heading into the summer months, with additional monthly labor reports scheduled for release by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
