The unemployment rate in Spain decreased to 9.87% in the second quarter of 2026, the lowest level since 2008

The unemployment rate in Spain reached 9.87% in the second quarter of 2026, the lowest level since the first quarter of 2008, according to the National Institute of Statistics (INE). Compared to the previous quarter, when the rate was 10.83%, the decline is significant.

The total number of unemployed has decreased by 213,300, reaching 2.49 million, and compared to last year, their number has decreased by 57,800. This decrease has been observed in all economic sectors: services recorded a reduction of 170,300 unemployed, agriculture 22,400, industry 10,900, and construction 5,400.

During the same period, the number of employees increased by 486,000, reaching 22.78 million. Typically, the unemployment rate decreases during the summer due to the increase in tourist activity.