Black Unemployment Rate Remains Elevated

The Black unemployment rate remains significantly elevated, contradicting recent statements suggesting substantial improvements. As of the current period, the rate is hovering around 6.6%, which is not as low as it was during President Trump's first term. Historically, Black workers have consistently experienced higher unemployment rates compared to other racial groups, with few exceptions like the pandemic period.

Recent reporting highlights that Black unemployment is particularly high in New York City, with a rate of approximately 8.8%. This figure represents the highest unemployment rate for Black workers among all U.S. cities. Data from the state comptroller indicates that only white workers have seen an improvement in employment over the past year. Further data from the New York City Economic Development Corporation shows that while Black workers are most affected, other racial groups have also experienced an increase in unemployment. As of the first quarter of 2026, both Hispanic and BIPOC workers had unemployment rates exceeding 7%.

The disparity in unemployment rates between Black and white workers has widened, reaching a gap of 5.6 percentage points as of the third quarter of last year. This trend is not confined to New York City; the gap between Black and white unemployment has also increased in Los Angeles. In Los Angeles, Black unemployment was notably high in 2025, reaching 9.6%. These figures underscore a persistent challenge in the labor market for Black individuals, with widening gaps and elevated rates across major urban centers.