BALTIMORE, Md. — Maryland lost 5,500 nonfarm jobs in February 2026 according to estimates released April 22 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The decline followed delayed seasonal job losses that typically occur in January after the winter holidays.
Combined data for January and February shows the state added 3,300 total nonfarm jobs. Private-sector employment grew by 5,500 jobs while public-sector employment fell by 2,200 jobs largely due to federal losses. Maryland’s private-sector growth of 0.24 percent outpaced the national rate of 0.04 percent during the two-month period.
The state’s unemployment rate held steady at 4.3 percent in February slightly below the national figure of 4.4 percent. Sectors gaining jobs in February included other services with 1,100 positions administrative and support and waste management with 500 and manufacturing with 400. Government added 600 jobs overall with gains in state and local offsetting 400 federal losses.
Largest losses occurred in construction with 4,100 jobs shed transportation warehousing and utilities with 2,000 accommodation and food services with 800 health care and social assistance with 600 and wholesale trade with 400.
Southern Maryland’s economy which relies heavily on federal installations defense contracting tourism agriculture and retail feels these statewide shifts. Patuxent River Naval Air Station in St. Mary’s County and other federal facilities employ thousands across St. Mary’s Calvert and Charles counties. Federal job reductions noted in the report contribute to public-sector declines that ripple through local businesses and households.
St. Mary’s County consistently reports lower unemployment than the state average. Recent figures placed it at 3.7 percent in January 2026 reflecting resilience tied to military and related employment. County leaders continue efforts to diversify beyond government work through advanced manufacturing life sciences and renewable energy initiatives. Similar dynamics play out in Calvert and Charles counties where workforce agencies support transitions for residents affected by federal changes.
The February data provides context amid broader regional challenges. Southern Maryland residents many of whom commute to the Washington area or work in federal roles monitor these trends closely. Private-sector gains in manufacturing and services offer positive signals for local employers in areas such as Waldorf Lexington Park and Prince Frederick.
Construction losses align with seasonal patterns and potential impacts from weather or permitting delays in the tri-county area. Southern Maryland’s growth in housing and infrastructure projects often drives this sector yet broader economic signals influence activity. Tourism-related losses in accommodation and food services may reflect post-holiday slowdowns affecting Chesapeake Bay waterfront businesses in places like Solomons Island and Chesapeake Beach.
Maryland Department of Labor officials note that data transfers directly from BLS servers with possible brief lags. More immediate details appear on the BLS website while the full current employment situation resides at the Maryland Department of Labor site. Metropolitan area and county-specific figures typically follow later.
The two-month net gain underscores underlying stability despite the monthly dip. Private-sector expansion outpacing national trends suggests Maryland businesses continue hiring in key areas. For Southern Maryland this supports ongoing workforce development programs that prepare residents for emerging opportunities in technology health care and skilled trades.
Federal employment fluctuations remain a key variable for the region. Southern Maryland’s proximity to major installations makes it sensitive to national policy and budget decisions. Local economic development offices in the tri-county area promote diversification to buffer against such volatility while leveraging assets like the Patuxent River Naval Air Station for innovation partnerships.
Health care losses in the report contrast with long-term demand in Southern Maryland where aging populations and expanded services drive needs. Officials point to training pipelines through College of Southern Maryland and other institutions to address gaps. Manufacturing gains could benefit local firms in aerospace components and advanced production tied to defense work.
Overall Maryland’s labor market shows mixed but resilient performance early in 2026. Southern Maryland communities continue focusing on education infrastructure and business attraction to sustain growth. Residents seeking employment resources can access county workforce centers for training and placement support aligned with regional priorities.
The report arrives as Southern Maryland prepares for spring and summer seasons when tourism construction and outdoor activities typically boost employment. Monitoring these trends helps local leaders plan for balanced economic development that preserves the region’s quality of life and natural resources.
