Riverside County Unemployment Falls to 5.2% in December

Riverside County closed out the year with good news for job seekers: unemployment fell to 5.2% in December, down from 5.5% the previous month.

The drop marks a positive shift for the region's 2.4 million residents. According to the California Employment Development Department, the county added more jobs than it lost throughout December, with growth spread across several sectors.

The improvement isn't just a one-month blip. County officials note that December's unemployment rate sits slightly lower than where the region started the year, showing steady progress over 12 months.

The broader Inland Empire, which includes both Riverside and San Bernardino counties, saw similar gains. The combined unemployment rate for both counties dropped to 5.1% in December, reflecting strengthening economic conditions across Southern California's fastest-growing region.

The Ripple Effect

When unemployment drops, the benefits spread far beyond individual paychecks. Families gain financial stability, local businesses see more customers walking through their doors, and communities collect more tax revenue for schools and public services.

The job gains come during a time when many Americans worry about economic uncertainty. While challenges remain nationally, Riverside County's consistent improvement shows that regional economies can still grow and create opportunities.

State labor officials plan to continue monitoring employment trends as the region moves into 2026. Economists say the steady decline in unemployment suggests the local economy has built real momentum, not just experienced a temporary boost.

For thousands of Riverside County residents who found work in recent months, the statistics represent something more personal: a chance to support their families, pursue their goals, and start the new year with renewed confidence.