Idaho Adds Construction Jobs as Washington Loses Ground

Idaho and Washington are experiencing sharply different trends in their construction industries, according to new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Idaho ranked among the top five states for construction job growth over the past year, adding nearly 5,000 new positions — a 6.8% increase. The Gem State’s growth reflects ongoing residential and commercial development, fueled by a strong economy and population growth.

In contrast, Washington saw its construction workforce shrink significantly. The state lost more than 11,000 jobs, marking a 4.9% decline year-over-year. The losses stand out in a region that has historically relied on robust construction activity to support housing demand and infrastructure investment.

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) pointed to ongoing workforce shortages as a major factor behind the uneven outcomes. “Ninety-two percent of construction firms are reporting difficulties in filling open positions,” the group said, underscoring the challenge contractors face in finding qualified workers.

Industry leaders note that Washington’s slowdown is partly linked to project delays and rising costs, while Idaho continues to benefit from strong in-migration and demand for new housing.

Ken Simonson, chief economist for AGC, emphasized that the situation could worsen without targeted workforce development. “The data clearly show that while demand exists, too many projects are being held back by a lack of skilled workers,” Simonson said.

Local contractors in Idaho have echoed these concerns, warning that sustained growth will require ongoing investment in trade training programs and incentives to attract younger workers into the field. Washington firms, meanwhile, are urging policymakers to support faster permitting, more predictable project pipelines, and training initiatives to reverse the downward trend.

The diverging employment patterns between the two states reflect broader national dynamics. States with strong housing markets and proactive workforce pipelines are still seeing gains, while others face headwinds from labor shortages, regulatory hurdles, and cooling demand.

With both Idaho and Washington poised for continued population growth in the coming years, industry experts warn that addressing labor shortages will be critical to ensuring infrastructure, housing, and commercial projects keep pace with demand.

Originally reported by Oliver Waite, Nonstop Local Digital Producer in Nonstop Local News.