France Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
France's unemployment rate was 8.20% in August 2026, down from 8.30% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 7.80%.
France's unemployment rate stands at 8.20% as of August 2026. The unemployment rate currently sits at 8.20% (down from 8.30% in the prior month). Across the tracked window it has ranged between 7.00% and 10.40%, and is 0.40% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 227 economies tracked on this platform, France ranks #67 on unemployment rate by latest value. It fell from 8.30% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 7.80%.
What's driving it
Joblessness tracks the business cycle, labour-force participation and structural shifts in industry, and tends to lag changes in output.
Recent readings
| Period | Unemployment rate |
|---|---|
| Aug 2026 | 8.20% |
| Jul 2026 | 8.30% |
| Jun 2026 | 8.30% |
| May 2026 | 8.40% |
| Apr 2026 | 8.30% |
| Mar 2026 | 8.20% |
| Feb 2026 | 8.20% |
| Jan 2026 | 8.10% |
Data: Source: OECD (terms permit extract/distribute, incl. commercial, with citation). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Unemployment Rate in France in 2026?
France's unemployment rate was 8.20% in August 2026, down from 8.30% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 7.80%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in France?
It fell in the latest reading — 8.20% in August 2026 versus 8.30% a month earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is unemployment rate?
It measures the share of the labour force that is without work but actively seeking a job.