Louisiana’s economy continued to show strong momentum in the third quarter of 2026, reaching a record 2.02 million nonfarm jobs, up 36,000 (1.8%) over the year. Nine of the state’s 10 metropolitan areas added jobs, led by Baton Rouge and New Orleans, while Louisiana ranked second among Southern states in overall job growth. The state also led the South in construction and manufacturing job growth. Unemployment declined to 4.0%, down from 4.5% in May, while combined unemployment claims fell 32%. Louisiana continues to hold competitive advantages with industrial electricity prices 28% below the national average and the highest exports per capita in the South. LNG, now the state’s largest export at $28.6 billion, along with continued industrial investment, reinforces Louisiana’s strong economic position and potential for further growth.
