5 things to know about work in Oklahoma

Sen. James Lankford is launching an effort to recognize what he calls the strong work ethic of Oklahomans, which he believes sets the state apart. Lankford is posting short videos of himself speaking with everyday Oklahomans about their jobs and the reasons they work so hard. He is calling the initiative "Oklahoma Works."

Here are five things to know about work in Oklahoma:

Oklahoma Unemployment Rate at 3.3% in Jan. 2025

Oklahoma’s all-time low unemployment rate was 2.1% in Dec. 2021. At the time, that was the third-lowest jobless rate in the country. Currently (Jan. 2025), unemployment in the state stands at 3.3%. 12 states have lower unemployment rates.

Oklahoma’s Labor Force and Employment

According to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, Oklahoma’s total labor force, as of January 2025, was a seasonally adjusted 1,991,880. OESC put employment at 1,926,755 and those unemployed at 65,125.

Government Employment Dominates

The largest employment sector in Oklahoma is government, accounting for 20.6% of all nonfarm jobs in the state: 371,100 government jobs out of 1,795,300 total non-farm jobs (Jan. 2025). Within government, ‘local government’ easily accounts for the most jobs: 233,800.

Leading Private Employment Sectors

The largest private sector employers in Oklahoma, known as supersectors, include:

1. Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: 319,900 jobs
2. Education and Health Services: 274,600 jobs
3. Professional and Business Services: 206,200 jobs

Oklahoma's Wage Comparison

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Oklahoma’s average hourly wage is $30.68. Only 7 states have lower average hourly wages. The national average hourly wage is currently $35.93.