The unemployment rate in San Diego County decreased to 3.9% in May, down from a revised 4.1% in April, and below the year-ago estimate of 4.1%, according to data released Friday by the state Employment Development Department.
The region’s rate of unemployment compares with 4.7% for California and 4.1% for the nation during the same period.
Between April 2026 and May 2026, total nonfarm employment increased from 1,580,600 to 1,584,900, an increase of 4,300 jobs. Agricultural employment rose by 200 jobs.
Leisure and hospitality saw the largest month-over gains in employment with 3,600 jobs added. Accommodation and food services provided 75% of those, the majority in the food services and drinking places subsector.
A total of four other sectors reported 2,000 jobs added. Construction led this second group with 900 jobs, with 700 concentrated in specialty trade contractors. Government, financial activities and manufacturing made up the remainder.
Conversely, trade, transportation, utilities, professional and business services, and private education and health services saw monthly declines, losing a combined total of 1,300 jobs.
Between May 2025 and May 2026, total nonfarm employment increased by 13,400, while farm employment decreased by 300.
Private education and health services led all industries, adding 15,400 jobs. Health care and social assistance gained 16,000 jobs, only slightly offset by private educational services declining by 600.
An additional three sectors posted year-over gains in employment: a combined total of 12,000 jobs. The majority of this was produced by leisure and hospitality, up 7,100, while professional and business services and other services provided the remainder.
A total of six sectors lost a combined 14,000 jobs over the year. Government posted the largest decline with 8,100 fewer jobs, with the majority of the losses stemming from federal government, down 7,100. Construction, trade, transportation, and utilities, information, manufacturing and financial activities also saw losses.
