Nevada job growth leads the U.S. at 1.9% in 2025–2026 as lithium reserves draw workers from California

Nevada has confirmed large lithium reserves, accelerating job creation and the state’s push to diversify beyond gaming. Professional and business services, education and health services, and mining-related roles have posted notable gains. The state’s workforce grew 1.9% in 2025–2026, the fastest pace nationwide, accounting for 12% of U.S. job growth over the same period. Lithium’s role in AI infrastructure—such as data-center backup power and EV batteries—has heightened attention on the value of localized supply.