NC among worst states to find jobs in 2025, report shows

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) – From building a resume and rapid-firing job applications for numerous roles, along with prepping for interviews and waiting for feedback, finding a job can be a lengthy and strenuous process. But the search for employment may be easier in some states than others, and North Carolina is not one of them, according to a new report.

The personal finance company WalletHub released its study to determine the best and worst states to find a job in 2025, analyzing factors such as employment growth, the median annual income and the average commute time, among several others.

The study ranked North Carolina as the sixth-worst state in America for employment opportunities, only ahead of Oregon, Alaska, Kentucky, Louisiana and West Virginia. It also placed 46th in the country for job market rank and 37th for economic environment rank.

Researchers compared all 50 states across multiple metrics related to job-market strength and economic health.

Massachusetts topped the list at the number one spot, with Connecticut, Minnesota, Vermont and New Hampshire rounding out the top five.

“Living in one of the best states for jobs can provide stable conditions for the long-term, helping you ride out the fluctuations that the economy will experience in the future,” WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said. “The best states for jobs make it easier for residents to find and retain jobs, and employers in these states also offer very competitive compensation and benefits. In addition, the top states are great places for people looking to raise a family, ranking among the best states for working parents.”

Click here to read the full report.