Indiana Unemployment Rate Falls, Local Rates Rise in Latest Report

The report for February 2026 was released this week.

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INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana's unemployment rate fell slightly in February. 

According to the Department of Workforce Development, the state's jobless rate stands at 3.3 percent, down from 3.4 percent a month prior. 

By comparison, the national unemployment rate reported for February was 4.4 percent. Local unemployment rates for February are listed below:

• Dearborn County: 3.7 percent, up from 3.0 percent in January
• Franklin County: 3.6 percent, up from 2.9 percent in January
• Ohio County: 4.0 percent, up from 2.9 percent in January
• Ripley County: 3.6 percent, up from 2.9 percent in January
• Switzerland County: 4.2 percent, up from 3.6 percent in January

In addition, Indiana’s labor force participation rate is 63.4 percent compared to the national rate of 62.0 percent. This rate is the percentage of Hoosiers 16 and older that are either working or actively looking for work. Those not in the labor force include, primarily, students, retirees and other non-working populations, such as individuals unable to work due to a disability or illness, or adults responsible for their family's childcare needs. Indiana’s total labor force stands at 3,498,263.

As of February 28, 2026, there were 85,672 open job postings throughout the state. As of the week ending on March 7, 2026, Indiana had 24,518 continued unemployment insurance claims filed.

Individuals looking for work, training or career information are encouraged to visit in.gov/dwd/job-seekers.