Oct 14, 2026 - News
Pittsburgh's unemployment rate declines
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Pittsburgh's regional unemployment rate fell compared to a year ago, per new federal data.
Why it matters: The region's labor market is sending mixed signals.
By the numbers: Pittsburgh's unemployment rate was 3.6% in August, marking its third straight monthly decline.
- Last August, regional unemployment was at 4.2%.
Yes, but: Local employers had 600 fewer jobs on their payrolls than a year earlier.
Between the lines: Educational and Health Services — i.e., colleges and hospitals — led the way for employment growth, adding 5,400 jobs compared to this time last year, per the state Department of Labor and Industry.
- The local construction industry lost 3,500 jobs compared to this time last year, and government jobs declined by 2,700.
Zoom out: The national unemployment rate remained at 4.1% as of August 2026.