TOPEKA, Kan. — Kansas’ unemployment rate edged higher in January, while overall job growth remained steady, according to preliminary data released by the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 3.9% in January, up from 3.8% in December and slightly higher than the 3.8% reported in January 2025. Meanwhile, the state’s labor force participation rate declined to 67.9%.
Despite the uptick in unemployment, Kansas saw modest job gains over the month. Total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,900 jobs from December. That figure includes both private sector and government employment.
Private sector employment grew by 800 jobs in January, while government employment accounted for an increase of 1,100 jobs.
Within the private sector, professional and business services led the gains, adding 1,100 jobs. However, those increases were partially offset by declines in other industries. Construction and financial activities each lost 600 jobs over the month.
On a year-over-year basis, Kansas continues to show positive employment trends. Since January 2025, total nonfarm employment has grown by 6,900 jobs. That includes an increase of 5,200 jobs in the private sector and 1,700 additional government positions.
State labor officials note that monthly fluctuations are common, but the broader trend reflects continued job growth across Kansas’ economy.