Pennsylvania Ranks Among Worst States for Jobs in 2026
A new study identifies Pennsylvania as the third-worst state for employment prospects this year.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Employment
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WalletHub ranked Pennsylvania as the third-worst state for jobs in 2026 based on an analysis of over 30 socioeconomic factors. Only Oregon and West Virginia placed lower in the rankings, while Nebraska, North Dakota, and Minnesota took the top spots.
Why it matters
The study highlights significant disparities in economic conditions across the nation, placing Pennsylvania near the bottom of state job markets. These findings serve as an indicator of broader regional economic challenges affecting the local workforce.
The study analyzed more than 30 variables, including unemployment rates and job growth, to determine its state rankings. Pennsylvania's median household income currently sits slightly below the national average.
The players
WalletHub
This personal finance website regularly publishes comparative studies and rankings regarding state economies and workforce trends.
The details
The rankings were calculated using metrics such as job opportunities, employment growth, and levels of work-related stress. Economic environment indicators including median annual income, starting salaries, and local commute times also heavily influenced the final results.
Timeline
WalletHub conducted the state job market study in 2026.
Nebraska maintained the sixth-lowest unemployment rate in September 2026.
Macro View
This year's ranking follows the established pattern of WalletHub's annual state-level employment index by benchmarking Pennsylvania against historical job market performance. The findings illustrate a divergence from top-performing states that leverage specific labor market advantages.
The ranking suggests that workers in Pennsylvania may face more challenging job market conditions than those in leading states like Nebraska or North Dakota. Residents might consider how local income levels and employment growth trends impact their personal financial planning.
The takeaway
Understanding these state-level rankings helps job seekers evaluate broader economic factors when considering relocation or career changes. Residents can use this data to compare their local cost of living and salary expectations against national benchmarks.
Further reading
For additional insight into state labor trends, see Pennsylvania Employment.
More information
Review the full methodology and findings in the WalletHub full job market report.
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