Lincoln County’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped slightly in September but remains significantly higher than the state and national rates.
The unemployment rate in the county was 5.7 percent in September, down from 5.8 percent in August and below the 6.3 percent rate of September 2025, the Oregon Employment Department announced Tuesday. Oregon’s statewide unemployment rate was 5 percent in September, and the national rate was 4.2 percent.
Lincoln County’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment increased by 80 in September to 18,380 jobs. Seasonally adjusted figures compare expected changes with actual changes.
A loss of 220 jobs was expected for the month, and the county’s total nonfarm employment decreased by 140, with a loss of 300 jobs in the private sector and a gain of 160 jobs in total government employment, according to regional economist Shawn Barrick. Leisure and hospitality lost 230 jobs while local education added 180 jobs, Barrick said.
September’s total nonfarm employment numbers were down 230 jobs over the year with the largest gains occurring in private education and health services which rose by 120 jobs since September 2025. Retail trade lost 130 jobs and local government lost 110 jobs, Barrick said.
