• The most recent job report updates reveal that between March 2026 and April 2026, Maryland gained 2,800 Total Nonfarm jobs.
  • The official unemployment rate for Maryland changed slightly to 4.4 percent.
  • Previous reports showed that Maryland added 5,300 total nonfarm jobs between February 2026 and March 2026, while the state’s unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.3 percent.

According to the most recent report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Maryland added 2,800 Total Nonfarm jobs between March 2026 and April 2026. This was a result of a slight gain of 400 Government jobs, and 2,400 Total Private jobs. Despite these increases, Maryland’s unemployment rate rose by 0.1 percent, from 4.3 percent to 4.4 percent over the month.

This time last year, Maryland ranked among states with significantly lower unemployment than the national average, with an adjusted rate of 3.8 percent. The 12-month change represents an increase of 0.6 percent, placing Maryland among states with statistically significant unemployment rate changes from April 2025 to April 2026. Maryland now ranks 30th nationally in unemployment, tied with Louisiana and West Virginia.

Initial federal unemployment insurance (UCFE) claims in Maryland remain elevated and stable within recent months, with 9,753 claims filed between January 19, 2025, and May 9, 2026. For the week ending May 9, the state reported 31 initial and 491 continuing UCFE claims; well above 2024 averages of 11 initial and 122 continuing UCFE claims per week, respectively. Compared with 27 claims in the week ending May 10, 2025, rising to 92 the following week, these trends reflect ongoing unemployment pressures stemming from federal workforce reductions. The state continues to monitor federal workforce changes across the U.S. given the significant challenges these disruptions pose.

Recent weeks have also highlighted one of Maryland’s most significant traditions with the 151st running of the Preakness Stakes, held at Laurel Park as Pimlico undergoes a $375 million rebuild. Discussions have intensified around a potential $85 million acquisition of the Preakness brand, amid continued investment in a historic but contracting horse racing industry. Economists expect  the temporary relocation may have a modest, short-term economic impact on Baltimore’s hospitality sector. Officials anticipate that Pimlico’s redevelopment will support over 500 jobs and strengthen the state’s thoroughbred racing industry, which could sustain over 28,000 jobs. Previous analyses (2014–2018) from the Maryland Department of Commerce showed strong attendance, spending, and employment impacts.

At the national level, the Federal Open Market Committee voted in April to hold the federal funds rate steady at 3.5%–3.75% following a divided decision. According to sources, policymakers are balancing persistent inflation risks with signs of a softening labor market, partly driven by elevated global energy prices. The Fed is also undergoing a leadership transition; this marked Jerome Powell’s final meeting as chair, though he will continue serving as a governor through January 2028. His successor, former Governor Kevin Warsh, has emphasized restoring the Fed’s credibility, including through potential rate adjustments.

The Regional Economic Studies Institute (RESI) at Towson University will continue monitoring new federal and state policies and their potential impact on Maryland’s economy. With the situation evolving quickly, stay tuned for updates on employment trends across Maryland, the region, and the nation.