San Diego, January 24, 2026
San Diego County’s unemployment rate fell to 4.4% in December, showing improvement from the previous month and indicating resilience in the labor market. The addition of 700 nonfarm jobs highlights growth in key sectors, although some industries faced job losses. Despite the decrease, the county’s rate remains slightly above the national average, reflecting ongoing economic adjustments. The employment trends indicate sector-specific changes, with trade and utilities leading job growth, and certain sectors experiencing challenges.
San Diego County Unemployment Rate Decreases to 4.4% in December 2025
San Diego County’s unemployment rate fell to 4.4% in December 2025, down from 4.7% in November 2025, according to data released by the state Employment Development Department. This rate is slightly higher than the 4.2% recorded in December 2024.
Employment Trends
Between November and December 2025, the county added 700 nonfarm jobs, increasing from 1,583,400 to 1,584,100. The trade, transportation, and utilities sector led this growth with an addition of 2,100 jobs. Professional and business services followed with 1,100 new jobs, and the government sector added 1,000 jobs. Conversely, the private education and health services sector experienced a loss of 1,800 jobs, while construction, other services, and financial activities combined saw a decrease of 2,600 jobs.
Comparative Unemployment Rates
In December 2025, California’s unemployment rate stood at 5.1%, and the national rate was 4.1%, positioning San Diego County’s rate below the state average but slightly above the national average.
Historical Context
Over the past year, San Diego County’s unemployment rate has fluctuated, starting at 4.2% in December 2024, rising to 4.7% in November 2025, and then decreasing to 4.4% in December 2025. These variations reflect ongoing economic adjustments within the region.
Sector-Specific Employment Changes
The December 2025 data highlights significant sector-specific employment changes. The trade, transportation, and utilities sector’s growth indicates a robust demand in these industries. However, the loss in the private education and health services sector suggests challenges in these areas, potentially due to factors such as reduced demand or operational adjustments. The combined losses in construction, other services, and financial activities sectors may reflect broader economic trends affecting these industries.
Implications for the Local Economy
The decrease in the unemployment rate to 4.4% in December 2025 suggests a positive trend in San Diego County’s labor market. The growth in key sectors like trade, transportation, and utilities points to economic resilience and potential opportunities for job seekers in these fields. However, the losses in certain sectors highlight areas that may require attention to sustain overall economic health and employment stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was San Diego County’s unemployment rate in December 2025?
San Diego County’s unemployment rate was 4.4% in December 2025, down from 4.7% in November 2025.
Which sector experienced the highest job growth in December 2025?
The trade, transportation, and utilities sector experienced the highest job growth, adding 2,100 jobs in December 2025.
How does San Diego County’s unemployment rate compare to the state and national averages?
In December 2025, San Diego County’s unemployment rate was 4.4%, compared to California’s rate of 5.1% and the national rate of 4.1%.
What sectors saw job losses in December 2025?
The private education and health services sector lost 1,800 jobs, while construction, other services, and financial activities combined saw a decrease of 2,600 jobs in December 2025.
How does the December 2025 unemployment rate compare to the previous year?
The unemployment rate in December 2025 was 4.4%, slightly higher than the 4.2% recorded in December 2024.
Key Features of San Diego County’s Unemployment Data
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| December 2025 Unemployment Rate | 4.4% |
| November 2025 Unemployment Rate | 4.7% |
| December 2024 Unemployment Rate | 4.2% |
| Job Growth in December 2025 | 700 nonfarm jobs added |
| Sector with Highest Job Growth | Trade, transportation, and utilities (2,100 jobs added) |
| Sector with Job Losses | Private education and health services (-1,800 jobs); Construction, other services, and financial activities (-2,600 jobs combined) |
| California Unemployment Rate in December 2025 | 5.1% |
| National Unemployment Rate in December 2025 | 4.1% |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
