The Free State’s unemployment rate has reached 37.8%, making it the second-highest in South Africa after the Eastern Cape, according to the Q1: 2026 Quarterly Labour Force Survey released by Statistics South Africa.

The latest statistics reveal that at least 11 000 more people joined the unemployment line in the first quarter of this year alone.

The rising unemployment comes at a time when the cost of living continues to increase, with fuel price rises over the past two months adding to the financial pressure on households. The unemployed are expected to feel the burden most severely.

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The construction sector has been particularly affected, recording approximately 18 000 job losses during the period.

As the country’s central province, the Free State’s economic challenges have raised questions about infrastructure investment and development. Roads, bulk services infrastructure and recreational facilities, including game reserves and museums, have been identified as potential areas for investment that could stimulate tourism and create employment opportunities.

The unemployment figures highlight the ongoing economic difficulties facing the province’s residents as living costs continue to rise.