United Kingdom Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
The United Kingdom's unemployment rate was 4.90% in April 2026, little changed from 4.90% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 4.70%.
The United Kingdom's unemployment rate stands at 4.90% as of April 2026. The unemployment rate currently sits at 4.90% (little changed from 4.90% in the prior month). Across the tracked window it has ranged between 3.60% and 5.40%, and is 0.20% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 226 economies tracked on this platform, United Kingdom ranks #128 on unemployment rate by latest value. It was little changed from 4.90% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 4.70%.
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 |
|---|---|
| Apr 2026 | 4.90% |
| Mar 2026 | 4.90% |
| Feb 2026 | 5.00% |
| Jan 2026 | 4.90% |
| Dec 2025 | 4.83% |
| Nov 2025 | 5.20% |
| Oct 2025 | 5.10% |
| Sep 2025 | 5.00% |
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 the United Kingdom in 2026?
The United Kingdom's unemployment rate was 4.90% in April 2026, little changed from 4.90% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 4.70%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in the United Kingdom?
It was little changed in the latest reading — 4.90% in April 2026 versus 4.90% 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.