New Mexico’s unemployment rate increased to 4.9% in April, marking a slight rise from 4.8% in March and a notable increase from 4.1% recorded during the same month last year, according to newly released labor market data.

Job Market Trends

The state’s unemployment rate remained above the national average of 4.3%, which was unchanged from March but slightly higher than the 4.2% reported nationwide in April 2025. Despite the increase in unemployment, New Mexico’s economy continued to add jobs. Total nonagricultural payroll employment increased by 400 jobs over the past year, representing growth of less than 0.1%.

Private-sector employers added 2,200 jobs, an increase of 0.3%, while public-sector employment declined by 1,800 jobs, or 0.9%. Among the state’s strongest-performing industries, trade, transportation, and utilities led the way with the addition of 2,900 jobs, a 2.0% increase. Retail trade accounted for most of that growth, adding 2,700 positions over the year.

Private education and health services also posted significant gains, adding 2,500 jobs, or 1.6%. Healthcare and social assistance represented the largest share of that growth, contributing 1,800 new jobs. Private educational services added another 700 positions. The mining and construction sector expanded by 700 jobs, driven primarily by growth in mining employment, which increased by 600 positions, or 2.4%.

Several industries, however, experienced employment declines. Professional and business services lost 1,400 jobs over the year, while financial activities shed 1,000 jobs. Information services employment fell by 400 jobs, and leisure and hospitality employment declined by 300 jobs.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.