The Oklahoma City metro continued to post one of the nation’s lowest unemployment rates among large metropolitan areas in March, according to newly released data from the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission.
Oklahoma continues to play a significant role in the nation’s defense infrastructure, ranking among the top states for military presence.
Oklahoma City closed 2025 on solid economic footing, marked by steady job growth, historically low unemployment, and continued business investment across the metro. While growth is expected to moderate in 2026, the region enters the year from a position of strength, supported by a diverse economy and long-term development efforts.
Oklahoma City’s unemployment rate held steady in August, continuing a historic stretch of strong job performance across the metro. The OKC metropolitan statistical area (MSA) recorded an unemployment rate of 3.3%, improving from 3.0% in July (seasonally adjusted).
Oklahoma has positioned itself as one of the nation’s most active aerospace and defense hubs. The state blends long-standing capabilities with a climate that supports innovation, workforce development and business growth.
As part of its ongoing workforce development efforts, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber launched OKC FAME in fall 2024 to support the region’s growing manufacturing sector.
Business and civic leaders recently gathered for the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s State of the Region event, which offered a clear, data-focused look at where Central Oklahoma stands—and where it needs to improve. The event featured a regional economic overview presented by Chamber President and CEO Christy Gillenwater.
The Oklahoma City metropolitan area posted a preliminary unemployment rate of 3.0% in July, improving from 3.2% in June. The metro has recorded unemployment below 4% for 48 consecutive months, the longest such stretch in its modern history.
