Construction employment increased in 33 states and the District of Columbia between March 2025 and March 2026, while 31 states and D.C. added jobs between February and March, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of new federal employment data. Association officials said contractors continue to face challenges finding qualified workers for specialized projects, even as hiring activity becomes more cautious.
“March construction employment data show the industry continues to add jobs in many parts of the country, but hiring momentum has moderated compared to the rapid expansion seen over the past several years,” said Macrina Wilkins, Director of Market Insights for the Associated General Contractors of America. “The data suggest contractors are retaining existing workers while taking a more cautious approach to expanding headcount.”
Over the year, Texas added the most construction jobs (21,600), followed by North Carolina (11,300), Ohio (11,200), Missouri (7,700), and Louisiana (6,900). Missouri recorded the largest percentage gain at 5.2%. California lost the most jobs (-9,400), followed by Florida (-8,700) and New York (-7,100). Alaska posted the steepest percentage decline at 6.5%.
For the month, Ohio added the most jobs (5,300), followed by Louisiana (2,900) and Florida (2,600). Delaware recorded the largest percentage increase at 4.2%. Nevada experienced the largest monthly decline, losing 2,600 jobs.
Association officials said the data indicate contractors are becoming more selective with hiring as project demand and financing conditions remain uneven. They added that continued investment in workforce development and career training will be essential to maintaining a stable construction workforce.
“Contractors appear focused on retaining their current workforce while hiring more selectively for essential projects,” said Jeffrey D. Shoaf, chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of America. “Providing greater certainty around infrastructure investment, energy policy, and workforce development will help firms continue adding workers where demand remains strong.”
View March 2026 state employment data and 1-month, 12-month rankings.
