Led by the seasonal loss in tourist-related jobs, Lincoln County’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate inched up to 4.8 percent in October, nearly a full percentage point higher than the statewide average
The statewide unemployment rate was 4 percent in October; the national rate was 4.1 percent.
A year earlier, the county’s unemployment rate was 4.3 percent.
Seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment in Lincoln County increased by 110 in October to 18,620 jobs, according to regional economist Shaun Barrick.
Seasonally adjusted figures compare expected changes with actual changes. A loss of 430 jobs was expected for the month, Barrick said, but the county’s total nonfarm employment actually decreased by 320, with a loss of 370 jobs in the private sector, and a gain of 50 jobs in government.
Leisure and hospitality lost 210 jobs and manufacturing and financial activities each lost 40 jobs. Local government, including tribal and education, added 70 jobs.
October’s total nonfarm employment numbers were down by 140 jobs over the year, a decrease of 0.7 percent. The largest gains occurred in other services and private education and health services, which each rose by 40 jobs over the year in October, Barrick said. Food manufacturing lost 120 jobs and financial activities shed 90 jobs over the year. Local government, including tribal and education, added 140 jobs.
