The unemployment rate in San Diego County decreased to 4.4% in December, down from the November estimate of 4.7% but above the year- ago rate of 4.2%, according to data released Friday by the state Employment Development Department.
The region’s rate of unemployment compares with 5.1% for California and 4.1% for the nation during the same period.
Between November 2025 and December 2025, total nonfarm employment increased from 1,583,400 to 1,584,100, a gain of 700 jobs. Agricultural employment lost 200 jobs.
Trade, transportation and utilities saw the largest increase in employment in December, with 2,100 jobs added. Professional and business services also saw a growth of 1,100 jobs, followed by the government sector, gaining 1,000.
On the other side, private education and health services lost 1,800 jobs in the month-over data. Construction, other services, and financial activities combined for an additional 2,600 jobs lost.
Between December 2024 and December 2025, total nonfarm employment increased by 5,500 jobs, while agricultural employment increased by 100.
Despite the recent losses, private education and health services saw the largest gain in 2025, adding 15,100 jobs. Government also posted gains, with 4,100 jobs added, followed by leisure and hospitality with 3,500.
Conversely, six sectors saw contractions over the year for a combined 17,200 jobs lost, led by professional and business services’ 6,200.
Construction, manufacturing, financial activities, and two additional sectors saw the remainder of the job losses
— City News Service
