Washington reported 133,000 job openings in August 2025, a decrease from the 139,000 openings recorded in July, according to data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Regional Commissioner Chris Rosenlund stated that “the job openings rate in Washington was 3.5 percent in August and 3.6 percent in the previous month.” Nationally, the job openings rate remained steady at 4.3 percent.
The ratio of unemployed persons per job opening in Washington stood at 1.4 for August. In comparison, thirty-four states and the District of Columbia had ratios lower than the national average of 1.0 unemployed persons per job opening; thirteen states had higher ratios and three states matched the national figure.
In terms of hiring activity, Washington saw 102,000 hires and 99,000 separations during August. This compares with July’s figures of 101,000 hires and 101,000 separations. Over the past twelve months ending in August, monthly averages were recorded at 111,000 hires and 104,000 separations.
Of those leaving their jobs in August within Washington state, there were 58,000 quits and 31,000 layoffs or discharges—compared to July’s numbers of 64,000 quits and an unchanged figure for layoffs and discharges. Over the yearlong period referenced above, quits averaged about 62,000 per month while layoffs and discharges averaged around 36,000 each month.
These statistics come from the Bureau’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS), which collects information on labor demand as well as workforce turnover rates across states using model-based estimates that draw on several employment data sources.
“Information in this release will be made available to individuals with sensory impairments upon request,” according to BLS officials.
