A preliminary federal revision lowered the Buffalo-Cheektowaga area’s March 2026 employment estimate by about 3,200 jobs, or 0.6%, according to Spectrum News’ State of Politics.
Earlier estimates had shown the region gaining about 4,200 jobs compared with March 2025.
The adjustment reflects an overestimate of employment rather than a sudden loss of 3,200 jobs.
Cornell researcher Russell Weaver said downward revisions affected industries prominent in the region, including retail, manufacturing and food and accommodation services.
The figures remain preliminary and have renewed debate among lawmakers about the results of state economic development spending.
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