South Africa Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
South Africa's unemployment rate was 32.39% in December 2025, up from 32.28% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 32.28%.
South Africa's unemployment rate stands at 32.39% as of December 2025. The unemployment rate currently sits at 32.39% (up from 32.28% in the prior year). Across the tracked window it has ranged between 22.26% and 34.01%, and is 0.11% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 226 economies tracked on this platform, South Africa ranks #2 on unemployment rate by latest value. It rose from 32.28% in the previous year, and compares with a year-earlier 32.28%.
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 |
|---|---|
| Dec 2025 | 32.39% |
| Dec 2024 | 32.28% |
| Dec 2023 | 32.10% |
| Dec 2022 | 33.27% |
| Dec 2021 | 34.01% |
| Dec 2020 | 29.22% |
| Dec 2019 | 28.47% |
| Dec 2018 | 26.91% |
Data: The World Bank — World Development Indicators (CC BY 4.0) Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Unemployment Rate in South Africa in 2026?
South Africa's unemployment rate was 32.39% in December 2025, up from 32.28% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 32.28%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in South Africa?
It rose in the latest reading — 32.39% in December 2025 versus 32.28% a year 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.