Iowa employers added 3,700 jobs in September, fueled by increases in hiring by public and private schools, new data from Iowa Workforce Development shows.

Iowa’s total nonfarm employment in September was 1,598,300, up from August’s 1,594,600, state data shows. In September 2024, Iowa’s total nonfarm employment was also 1,594,600. Specifically, government, which includes public education, added 1,700 jobs in September and educational services added 700 jobs. Other sectors that added jobs include construction (up 1,300 jobs), manufacturing (up 600 jobs) and accommodation and food services (up 200 jobs).

The workforce data is the most recent available. The 43-day shutdown of the federal government this fall delayed the release of the data. Iowa’s labor force report relies on data collected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Census Bureau. 

The labor statistics bureau has announced that it will not publish October 2025 state employment or unemployment news releases or metropolitan area employment and unemployment news releases. State employment and unemployment data for November is expected to be released on Jan. 7.

Overall, Iowa’s unemployment rate for September was 3.7%, a slight drop from August’s rate of 3.8%. In September 2024, the state’s jobless rate was 3.3%.

The U.S. unemployment rate in September was 4.4%. To read the entire report, click here.

Related: Find out which manufacturing facilities have closed in Iowa