Idaho’s unemployment rate dipped slightly to 2.7 percent in September, continuing at or below 3 percent for the 13th consecutive month.
The state’s labor force – the total number of people 16 years of age and older working or looking for work – was 853,000, essentially unchanged since July. Total nonfarm jobs fell by 1,000 in September. The Information and Government industry sectors met seasonal expectations with no change.
Four industry sectors had a combined increase of 900 jobs – Manufacturing; Financial Activities; Professional and Business Services; and Trade, Transportation and Utilities. The remaining five sectors – Natural Resources; Construction; Education and Health Services; Leisure and Hospitality; and Other Services – had a combined decline of 1,900 jobs.
Nez Perce County’s unemployment rate for September was 2.3 percent; Latah County 2.2 percent; Lewis County 4 percent; Idaho County 4.2 percent; and Clearwater County 6.4 percent.
Among the 12 largest cities in Idaho, Lewiston ranked in the middle at 2.2 percent unemployment. (Idaho Department of Labor)
