MADISON – The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development today released U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates of employment and unemployment statistics for metropolitan areas, major cities, and counties in Wisconsin for May 2026.
In brief, the nonseasonally adjusted data for Wisconsin shows:
- Metropolitan Statistical Areas: Preliminary May 2026 unemployment rates decreased in all 13 metropolitan areas over the month. Rates decreased in 12 metropolitan areas over the year and stayed the same in one area: La Crosse-Onalaska.
- Municipalities: Preliminary May 2026 unemployment rates decreased in all 35 of Wisconsin’s largest cities over the month. Unemployment rates decreased in 27 cities over the year. Rates increased in four cities over the year and stayed the same in the remaining four cities.
- Counties: Preliminary May 2026 unemployment rates decreased in all 72 counties over the month. Unemployment rates decreased in 67 counties over the year. Rates increased in two counties over the year and stayed the same in the remaining three counties.
Additional information about the data included in the release is available at Wisconomy.com.
See following pages for informational tables.
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Wisconsin’s Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin’s diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker’s Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, an
