Oregon’s job growth fastest in private education, health services

May 3, 2026 - 03:13

Oregon's job market saw a significant shift over the past year, with private education and health services emerging as the fastest-growing sectors. According to the latest employment data, the state lost 18,600 nonfarm payroll jobs from January 2025 to January 2026, a decline of 0.9%. While the overall numbers show a contraction, the losses were not spread evenly across industries.

The private education and health services sector bucked the trend, adding jobs at a pace that outpaced all other major categories. This growth was driven by increased demand for healthcare workers, including nurses, medical technicians, and support staff, as well as hiring in private schools and training centers. Other sectors, such as manufacturing and retail trade, experienced steeper declines, contributing to the net job loss.

Economists point to a mix of factors behind the downturn, including slower consumer spending and ongoing adjustments in the tech and construction industries. The state's unemployment rate ticked up slightly as a result, though it remains relatively low by historical standards. Analysts expect the health and education sectors to continue expanding in the coming months, providing a buffer against broader economic headwinds. For now, Oregon's job market tells a story of uneven growth, with a few bright spots amid a general slowdown.