May 2026 County Labor Market Information
Unemployment Rate for San Luis Obispo County Decreased in April 2026
The San Luis Obispo County Monthly Employment Report (April 2026) shows a decline in the civilian labor force, a decrease in civilian employment, and a decrease in civilian unemployment.
Unemployment
The California Employment Development Department (EDD) reported a county unemployment rate of 4.0% in April 2026, down from the revised 4.1% in March 2026. San Luis Obispo County holds the 8th-lowest unemployment rate in California. In comparison, the unadjusted unemployment rate was 5.0% statewide and 4.0% nationally during the same period.
Month‑over Job Changes
During April, San Luis Obispo County saw notable shifts across industries. Leisure and Hospitality experienced the largest month‑over‑month growth with an increase of 400 jobs. Government followed with a gain of 200 jobs, while Professional and Business Services, Private Education and Health Services, and Other Services each added 100 jobs.
The Manufacturing, Information, and Financial Activities sectors showed no change during this period.
In contrast, the Mining, Logging, and Construction industry and the Trade, Transportation, and Utilities sector each lost 100 jobs.
Total Farm employment remained unchanged.
Overall, the county recorded a net increase of 700 jobs in April.
Year-over Job Changes
Year‑over‑year data shows that Private Education and Health Services experienced the largest increase, adding 400 jobs compared to April 2025. Leisure and Hospitality also saw growth, adding 200 jobs over the past year.
However, several industries experienced significant declines. Government recorded the largest loss with a decrease of 2,100 jobs, while the Trade, Transportation, and Utilities sector lost 600 jobs. Both Mining, Logging, and Construction, and Manufacturing declined by 300 jobs each. Professional and Business Services saw a decrease of 200 jobs, and Financial Activities, Information, and Other Services each experienced a loss of 100 jobs year‑over‑year.
Total Farm employment increased by 100 jobs.
In total, employers in San Luis Obispo County lost 3,300 jobs over the past year.
This report is written by the San Luis Obispo County Workforce Development Board Staff.
Data Source: http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov
