Japan Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
Japan's unemployment rate was 2.50% in August 2026, up from 2.40% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 2.60%.
Japan's unemployment rate stands at 2.50% as of August 2026. The unemployment rate currently sits at 2.50% (up from 2.40% in the prior month). Across the tracked window it has ranged between 2.20% and 3.38%, and is 0.10% lower than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 226 economies tracked on this platform, Japan ranks #194 on unemployment rate by latest value. It rose from 2.40% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 2.60%.
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 | 2.50% |
| Jul 2026 | 2.40% |
| Jun 2026 | 2.50% |
| May 2026 | 2.50% |
| Apr 2026 | 2.50% |
| Mar 2026 | 2.67% |
| Feb 2026 | 2.60% |
| Jan 2026 | 2.70% |
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 Japan in 2026?
Japan's unemployment rate was 2.50% in August 2026, up from 2.40% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 2.60%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in Japan?
It rose in the latest reading — 2.50% in August 2026 versus 2.40% 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.