ANN ARBOR – Gauging the health of Michigan’s economy was difficult even before the federal government shutdown interfered with key data releases. The two key measures of employment, from the payroll and household surveys, have generally trended in opposite directions this year.

Preliminary data suggests a large downward revision is in store for Michigan’s payroll employment. The shutdown has not clarified matters. We project Michigan’s payroll job count to edge lower in 2026, with 2,000 job losses, before growth of 11,300 jobs returns in 2027.

Michigan Map flag on American dollars illustration

Job Losses In Manufacturing Sector

Michigan’s manufacturing sector sheds about 3,000 jobs next year before adding 4,500 the following year with a boost from a looser regulatory environment. Job g

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