August 26, 2026 3:20 a.m. 

Total nonfarm jobs in Douglas County declined slightly over the year to July by 210 jobs for a less of 1 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis.

A State of Oregon Employment Department release said despite estimated losses, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was little changed, and now stands at 6.1 percent compared with 6.3 percent in July 2025.

Regional Economist Henry Fields said the largest estimated job declines were in manufacturing, mining, logging and construction, and retail trade. They lost 190 jobs or 4 percent, 140 jobs or 5 percent, and 130 jobs or 3 percent, respectively. Gains were estimated in private education and health service, and wholesale trade of 300 jobs or 4 percent and 70 jobs or 8 percent respectively.

OED said over the month, declines were estimated in local government, most of which were seasonally expected as summer breaks at K-12 school district and higher education take full effect. Job gains were estimated from June to July in leisure and hospitality, although the employment estimate was lower than in July of last year.