Houston Adds 96,700 Jobs, Despite Oil Woes

HOUSTON – Despite the downbeat tone of economy in the oil-rich Lone Star State, Houston continues to put up some impressive jobs growth numbers.

The Houston metro area created 96,700 jobs in the 12-month period ending February 28, 2015, according to the Texas Workforce Commission.

The Dallas-Fort Worth metro led the state in employment growth, creating 132,400 jobs, San Antonio-New Braunfels ranked third with 34,500 jobs, and Austin placed fourth with 26,900 jobs).

Houston’s February unemployment rate was 4.3 percent, down from 4.5 percent in January, and from 5.4 percent in February 2014. Texas’ statewide unemployment rate was also 4.3 percent in February, down from 5.7 percent a year ago.

Oil prices have declined from over $100 a barrel last summer to about $50 a barrel today. A number of energy companies have announced layoffs and spending cuts.

Economist predict that Houston’s economy will get softer because of the energy slump. However, 96.700 is strong job growth that could be the envy of many cities.