Israel Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
Israel's unemployment rate was 2.83% in May 2026, down from 2.96% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 3.12%.
Israel's unemployment rate stands at 2.83% as of May 2026. Over the latest readings, the unemployment rate has moved within a band of 2.63% to 5.33%. The most recent figure of 2.83% is down from 2.96% a month earlier, and is 0.29% lower than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 226 economies tracked on this platform, Israel ranks #181 on unemployment rate by latest value. It fell from 2.96% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 3.12%.
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 |
|---|---|
| May 2026 | 2.83% |
| Apr 2026 | 2.96% |
| Mar 2026 | 2.86% |
| Feb 2026 | 2.70% |
| Jan 2026 | 3.08% |
| Dec 2025 | 3.00% |
| Nov 2025 | 3.17% |
| Oct 2025 | 3.09% |
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 Israel in 2026?
Israel's unemployment rate was 2.83% in May 2026, down from 2.96% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 3.12%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in Israel?
It fell in the latest reading — 2.83% in May 2026 versus 2.96% a month earlier. Year on year it is lower.
What is unemployment rate?
It measures the share of the labour force that is without work but actively seeking a job.