💼 Unemployment in Spain

As of November 2025, the unemployment rate in Spain has shown a notable decline, with a total of 2,424,454 registered unemployed individuals according to the Servicio Público de Empleo Estatal (SEPE). This figure represents a year-over-year decrease of 6.2%, indicating a positive trend in the labor market as Spain continues to recover from the economic challenges of the past decade. Despite this overall improvement, significant disparities remain across different regions and demographics.

Regions such as Andalusia and the Canary Islands continue to struggle with high unemployment rates, exceeding 20%. In contrast, the Basque Country and Navarra showcase more favorable conditions, with unemployment rates falling below 10%. This stark regional divide illustrates the varying economic landscapes within Spain and the need for targeted policies to address unemployment in the hardest-hit areas.

One of the persistent issues in Spain's labor market is the gender gap in unemployment, where female unemployment rates are higher than those for males. Additionally, youth unemployment remains a considerable challenge, reflecting ongoing difficulties for younger individuals entering the workforce. These factors highlight the importance of developing programs aimed at supporting vulnerable groups and promoting inclusivity in employment opportunities.

The services sector remains the largest contributor to unemployment in Spain, emphasizing the necessity for workforce development in this area. Overall, while the long-term trend indicates a decline from the peak unemployment rate of 26% in 2013, ongoing efforts are essential to ensure that the improvements are sustainable and that all regions and demographics benefit from a recovering economy.