Summer 2026 Louisiana Economic Report
Summer 2026 · pelicanpolicy.org
LouisianaEconomic Report
The Pelican Institute highlights Louisiana’s economic situation
Louisiana enters the second half of 2026 with encouraging economic momentum. Output, personal income, jobs, and population have increased in the latest available data. These gains offer evidence that Louisiana can compete for investment and opportunity, but lasting prosperity will require policymakers to build on recent reforms rather than rely on temporary projects, subsidies, or government-directed development.
- 2.9%GDP growth, annualized rate,
2025 Q4–2026 Q1 - 6.3%Personal income growth,
annualized rate, 2026 Q1 - +16,700Nonfarm payroll jobs,
May 2025 to May 2026 - +20,449Residents, July 1, 2024
to July 1, 2025
Louisiana Economic Report · Summer 2026
These gains offer evidence that Louisiana can compete for investment and opportunity, but lasting prosperity will require policymakers to build on recent reforms.
Media availability
Vance Ginn, Ph.D.
Senior Economic Fellow, Pelican Institute
Ginn previously served as chief economist for the White House Office of Management and Budget and holds a Ph.D. in economics from Texas Tech University.
Ginn is available for radio, television, and print interviews to elaborate on these indicators and to offer specific public policy recommendations to accelerate and sustain Louisiana’s economic Comeback.
To schedule an interview
Kelly Feldman
Digital Marketing Coordinator
kelly@pelicaninstitute.org(504) 500-0506