08/26July Local Employment and Unemployment Data Released

1. News Room

July Local Employment and Unemployment Data Released

MADISON - The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development today released U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates of employment and unemployment statistics for metropolitan areas, major cities, and counties in Wisconsin for July 2026.

In brief, the nonseasonally adjusted data for Wisconsin shows:

• Metropolitan Statistical Areas: Preliminary July 2026 unemployment rates increased in onemetropolitan area over the month: Appleton. Rates decreased in four metropolitan areas over the month and stayed the same in the remaining eight metropolitan areas. Rates increased in 12 metropolitan areas over the year and stayed the same in one area: Fond du Lac.
• Municipalities: Preliminary July 2026 unemployment rates increased in 10 of Wisconsin's largest cities over the month. Rates decreased in 19 cities over the month and stayed the same in the remaining six cities. Unemployment rates decreased in four cities over the year. Rates increased in 26 cities over the year and stayed the same in the remaining five cities.
• Counties: Preliminary July 2026 unemployment rates increased in 22 counties over the month. Rates decreased in 25 counties over the month and stayed the same in the remaining 25 counties. Unemployment rates decreased in 10 counties over the year. Rates increased in 51 counties over the year and stayed the same in the remaining 11 counties.
• View Wisconsin Labor Force Summary

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  Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions - Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.