What is the unemployment rate in Wisconsin right now?
Updated May. 22, 2026Refreshed monthly
Unemployment in Wisconsin was at 3.5% in April 2026. That's unchanged from the month before. The unemployment rate is the percentage of people in the labor force who are actively looking for work but not currently employed. It's a common way to measure the health of the job market and economy.
In April 2026,
3.5%
of the labor force was unemployed in Wisconsin
April 2026 had a
+0
percentage point change from the previous month
The Bureau of Labor Statistics calculates the unemployment rate through a monthly survey to identify the civilian labor force, meaning people who are employed or actively seeking work. It counts part-time workers as employed. It excludes people who aren’t actively looking for work, such as retirees or discouraged workers.
In April 2026, the unemployment rate in Wisconsin was lower than the US overall.
Seasonally adjusted unemployment rate, January 2007 to April 2026
Unemployment rates differ within states due to various factors. Counties with many job opportunities and different industries often have lower unemployment rates. In rural areas or in places where industries are shrinking, the rate can be higher. Seasonal work in industries like tourism or farming can lead to unemployment rising or falling. Population changes and local policies also play a role in how many people are employed.
What counties in Wisconsin have the highest and lowest unemployment?
Understanding unemployment rates in different regions is important for addressing economic disparities and fostering growth. In Wisconsin, the county with the highest unemployment rate is [County Name], with an unemployment rate of [Rate]%. This high rate may be attributed to various economic factors, such as the decline of local industries or limited job opportunities. Conversely, the county with the lowest unemployment rate is [County Name], with an unemployment rate of [Rate]%. This lower rate could be due to a robust local economy, presence of thriving industries, or effective employment policies. Comparing these rates highlights differences and trends, which can impact the local economy and community. Monitoring and addressing unemployment rates in Wisconsin counties is necessary for promoting economic stability and growth.In Wisconsin, Iron County, WI had the highest unemployment rate at 7.8%. Calumet County, WI had the lowest at 2.9%. Milwaukee County, WI, the county with the largest labor force in the state, had an unemployment rate of 4.8%. The latest county-level data is from March 2026.
Unemployment rates in Wisconsin counties ranged from 2.9% to 7.8% in March 2026.
Unemployment rate, by county, not seasonally adjusted
Unemployment rate, by county in Wisconsin (March 2026)
| 1. | Iron County, WI | 7.8% |
| 2. | Burnett County, WI | 7.7% |
| 3. | Polk County, WI | 7.5% |
| 4. | Adams County, WI | 6.9% |
| 5. | Bayfield County, WI | 6.8% |
| 6. | Rusk County, WI | 6.8% |
| 7. | Washburn County, WI | 6.7% |
| 8. | Douglas County, WI | 6.5% |
| 9. | Crawford County, WI | 6.3% |
| 10. | Sawyer County, WI | 6.1% |
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Methodology
USAFacts standardizes data, in areas such as time and demographics, to make it easier to understand and compare.
The analysis was generated with the help of AI and reviewed by USAFacts for accuracy.
Page sources
USAFacts endeavors to share the most up-to-date information available. We sourced the data on this page directly from government agencies; however, the intervals at which agencies publish updated data vary.
