The unemployment rate in Lincoln County reached 5 percent in February, an 11 percent increase over the 4.5 percent jobless rate a year ago.
February’s local unemployment rate increased from 4.9 percent in January, according to an Oregon Employment Department news release Tuesday. The statewide unemployment rate was 4.5 percent in February, and the national rate was 4.1 percent.
Regional economist Shaun Barrick said the county’s seasonally adjusted employment decreased by 60 jobs in February to 18,800 jobs.
Seasonally adjusted figures compare expected changes with actual changes. A gain of 150 jobs was expected for the month, Barrick said, but the county’s total nonfarm employment actually increased by 90, with a gain of 90 jobs in the private sector.
Government employment was unchanged, he said, while leisure and hospitality added 80 jobs. Other private industries had little to no change.
February’s total nonfarm employment numbers were up by 30 jobs over the last 12 months. The largest gains occurred in professional and business services which rose by 150 jobs over the year in February, manufacturing lost 220 jobs, retail trade shed 90 jobs, and local government, excluding tribal and education, added 70 jobs over the last 12 months.
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