The number of municipal employees in Brazil rose 21% from December 2021 to 2025, from 6.2 million to 7.5 million, according to IBGE's Pnad data compiled by economist Bruno Imaizumi. This outpaces growth in other public sectors and private formal employment. The surge reflects population demands and fiscal improvements.
IBGE's Pnad data, compiled by Bruno Imaizumi of 4intelligence, reveal municipal staff rose from 6.2 million in December 2021 to 7.5 million in 2025, a 21% increase. Federal administration grew just 2%, from 1.62 million to 1.65 million, and state level 7.39%.
Private formal employment increased 16.73% over the period. In the quarter ending January 2026, public jobs grew 4.5% year-over-year, versus 2.1% for signed private contracts, the highest among occupation categories.
Imaizumi links this to demand for services, especially health, and fiscal recovery from 2022. "From 2022 onwards, municipal and state accounts improved, allowing more hiring room. This without even counting parliamentary amendments," he said.
An IFI report notes post-pandemic hiring restrictions until 2021 were lifted afterward. Municipalities allocate on average 50% of primary spending to personnel, with 2023-2024 deficits turning to surplus in 2025 due to higher revenues and a 31% drop in investments.
