Nevada is now adding jobs at the fastest rate in the nation, according to newly analyzed employment data from the Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation.
From January 2025 to January 2026, the state added 30,200 jobs, a 1.9% increase, bringing total employment to more than 1.6 million jobs for the first time on record.
“Initial employment reports reflected a relatively flat trend through the year, but after reviewing individual reports from all employers in the state, this year’s job growth actually reflects a sustained expansion,” said DETR Chief Economist David Schmidt. “Nevada has more jobs today than at any point in its history, and employers are adding positions at a pace unmatched anywhere else in the country.”
The updated ranking comes after the department’s annual review of more complete quarterly data submitted through the unemployment insurance system. Officials said the revised numbers show stronger and more sustained growth than earlier estimates reflected.
While tourism has been softer in recent months, employment gains continue across multiple sectors, including construction, health care, business services, and education.
Gov. Joe Lombardo said the state’s performance reflects broader economic changes underway.
“Nevada’s position as the nation’s fastest-growing job market highlights my administration’s efforts to transition into a more resilient, broad-based economy. This is creating real opportunities for Nevadans and building a foundation for long-term success that benefits every community in our state. By cutting red tape, developing the workforce, and focusing on smart economic policies, Nevada is quickly becoming one of the best business environments in the nation.”
State officials also pointed to broader economic indicators, including more than $5 billion in private investment and over 44,500 jobs added under the governor’s administration. They cited regulatory changes, workforce programs, and business tax reductions as part of ongoing economic policy efforts.
Nevada has also seen growth in tourism and infrastructure development tied to major events and sports expansions in Las Vegas, along with workforce and health care licensing initiatives aimed at speeding entry into the labor market.
