North Carolina Unemployment Rates Show Mixed Results in July 2023

Why It Matters:

The fluctuating unemployment rates in North Carolina's counties and metro areas provide insight into the state's overall economic health and job market.

The Details:

• Unemployment rates decreased in 39 counties, increased in 27, and remained unchanged in 34.

• Scotland County had the highest unemployment rate at 6.7%, while Buncombe and Swain Counties had the lowest at 2.7%.

• Two metro areas saw rate decreases, two saw increases, and 11 remained unchanged.

• Rocky Mount had the highest metro area rate at 5.2%, while Asheville had the lowest at 2.9%.

• Statewide, the not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 3.6%.

• When compared to the same month last year, unemployment rates decreased in 97 counties, increased in two, and remained unchanged in one.

• All 15 of the state's metro areas experienced rate decreases over the year.

• The number of employed workers increased by 23,199 to 5,099,279, while the number of unemployed increased by 291 to 189,200 in July.

• Since July 2022, the number of employed workers increased by 98,709, while the number of unemployed decreased by 14,075.

Conclusion:

The July 2023 unemployment rates in North Carolina reflect a mixed picture, with some areas experiencing improvements while others face challenges in job creation. The next update on unemployment rates will be released in September 2023.