New estimates suggest Maryland added 2,000 jobs across July and August amid monthly fluctuations

BALTIMORE, MD (September 18, 2026) – New employment estimates released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) suggest that Maryland added 2,000 jobs across July and August. Survey estimates can be volatile from month to month, and in this case indicate employment fell by 8,200 jobs in August after rising by 10,200 jobs in July (revised down from a preliminary estimate of 11,700 jobs gained). Due to monthly volatility, reviewing estimates across both July and August shows a clearer picture of recent employment patterns, indicating steady growth. Across July and August combined, employment in Maryland grew at a rate of 0.1 percent, matching the national rate.

In total, BLS estimates that Maryland added 20,100 total jobs in the first eight months of 2026 and grew at a 0.7 percent rate, which outpaces the national employment growth rate of 0.4 percent for that same period.

BLS further estimates that Maryland’s unemployment rate fell slightly to 4.1 percent, matching the national average. Maryland’s labor force participation rate fell slightly to 63.7 percent, but remains well above the national average of 61.6 percent.

The five sectors with the largest estimated employment gains across both July and August were: Accommodation and Food Services (4,000 jobs); Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (2,800 jobs); Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation (1,500 jobs); Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation (900 jobs); and Government (600 jobs).

The six sectors with the largest estimated employment losses across both July and August were: Construction (-2,900 jobs); Private Educational Services (-1,400 jobs); Health Care and Social Assistance (-800 jobs); Retail Trade (-800 jobs); Transportation, Warehousing, and Utilities (-700 jobs); and Other Services (-700 jobs).

Note: Data is transferred to the Maryland Department of Labor’s website directly from BLS servers. Our database may be refreshed with a brief lag. For more immediate access to this month’s jobs data, please visit the BLS website. Please visit the Maryland Department of Labor’s website to view the current employment situation.

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The Maryland Department of Labor strives to create an equitable and inclusive Maryland where all residents have the opportunities and resources to attain financial stability, reach their career potential, and contribute to their communities; where businesses have access to capital and the skilled workforce they need to succeed; where workplaces are safe and well-regulated; and where the economy is resilient and growing. For updates and information, follow MD Labor on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and visit our website.