New Hampshire Workers Face Real Challenges Despite Improving Job Market Indicators

NewsData.io · United States · Sep 25, 2026

New Hampshire's labor market showed partial recovery in early 2026, with nonfarm employment up 1.1% through July, but wage growth continues to lag inflation, reducing purchasing power by an estimated 1.6%. Small businesses with fewer than 20 employees drove 79% of net private-sector job growth in 2025, while Health Care and Social Assistance led sectoral gains. A 23% rise in ongoing unemployment claims compared to two years prior signals a low-hiring, low-turnover environment where job seekers are taking longer to find work. AI-driven reductions in entry-level openings pose an additional structural risk, particularly for younger workers.