Spain Jobless Falls Less Than Expected

The number of people registering as jobless in Spain fell by 36.323 thousand from the previous month to 2.321 million in May 2026, compared with market expectations of a 56.8 thousand decline. Unemployment decreased across all sectors, led by services with 29,829 fewer unemployed, followed by industry (-2,665), construction (-2,304) and agriculture (-1,628), while those without prior employment increased by only 98. Youth unemployment saw a drop of 4,738, reaching 164,955. Regionally, unemployment fell across all autonomous communities, with Andalusia (-9,125), Catalonia (-6,900) and Madrid (-3,834) posting the largest declines.

The number of people registering as jobless in Spain fell by 62.7K people from the previous month in April 2026, far exceeding market expectations of an 18.6K decline. Total unemployment dropped to 2.357 million, falling below 2.4 million for the first time since June 2008, amid record employment levels. Joblessness declined across all sectors, led by services with 46,156 fewer unemployed, followed by industry (-3,680), construction (-3,603) and agriculture (-2,272), while those without prior employment also decreased (-6,957). Youth unemployment saw a sharp drop of 19,284, reaching a record low below 170,000. Regionally, unemployment fell across all autonomous communities, with Andalusia (-22,393), Catalonia (-8,949) and Madrid (-6,249) posting the largest declines. Separately, data from the Social Security Ministry showed Spain added 41,753 net jobs in April, bringing total employment to 22.05 million.

The number of people registering as jobless in Spain fell by 22.934 thousand from the previous month to 2.420 million in March 2026, compared with market expectations of a 10.3 thousand increase. Unemployment decreased across services (-18,852), construction (-5,846) and industry (-1,482). On the other hand, unemployment rose in and agriculture (+365). Youth unemployment fell by 431 to 188,977, the lowest figure ever recorded in March. The largest decreases in unemployment were registered in Andalusia (-8,836), Catalonia (-3,777) and Valencian Community (-2,467).