San Diego Unemployment Drops to 4.4% in December

San Diego County workers got an early holiday gift in December as unemployment dropped from 4.7% to 4.4%, signaling renewed strength in the local job market. The improvement means more families could celebrate the season with financial security.

The region added 700 jobs between November and December, pushing total nonfarm employment to 1,584,100 workers. This growth came even as California's statewide unemployment rate stood higher at 5.1%, and the national rate settled at 4.1%.

Trade, transportation and utilities led the December surge with 2,100 new positions. Professional and business services contributed another 1,100 jobs, while government sector hiring added 1,000 more opportunities for workers.

Some sectors faced challenges during the month. Private education and health services cut 1,800 positions, while construction, financial activities, and other services combined for 2,600 job losses.

The Bright Side

Looking at the full year tells a more encouraging story. Between December 2024 and December 2025, San Diego County added 5,500 total jobs despite monthly fluctuations.

Private education and health services dominated annual growth with 15,100 new positions, showing strong demand for healthcare workers and educators. Government employment grew by 4,100 jobs, followed by leisure and hospitality with 3,500 additions as tourism and dining remained strong.

The December numbers represent more than statistics. Each percentage point drop in unemployment means hundreds of local families gained steady paychecks, health insurance, and the stability to plan for their futures.

San Diego's ability to keep unemployment below both state and most national averages demonstrates the region's diverse economy and resilient workforce. From the ports moving goods to the hospitals caring for patients, multiple sectors continue creating opportunities.

The region's economy heads into 2026 with momentum, proving that local businesses and workers can weather challenges together.