Idaho’s unemployment rate dipped to 2.9 percent in March, ending a six-month run of 3 percent, and remaining at low levels last seen in 2007 and 2008.
The state’s labor force increased by 1,600 from February to March for an all-time record high of 848,000.
Total nonfarm jobs increased by 1,400 jobs in March. Seven industry sectors – natural resources; construction; manufacturing; trade, transportation and utilities; professional and business services; leisure and hospitality; and other services – all exceeded seasonal expectations. Three sectors – information; professional and business services; and education and health services – decreased, while government employment remained unchanged.
The jobless rate in Nez Perce County was 2.7 percent; Latah County, 2.4 percent; Clearwater County, 7 percent; Lewis County, 5.3 percent; and Idaho County, 4.8 percent.
Year-over-year, Idaho continued to see strong job growth. Total nonfarm jobs grew by 3.3 percent for a total of 23,300 jobs – the fastest growth rate in the nation for the second consecutive month. Construction jobs led the way, followed by financial activities, other services, manufacturing, and leisure and hospitality. (Idaho Department of Labor)
