Lincoln County’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.6 percent in July, unchanged from the previous month (4.6%) and essentially unchanged from the year before (4.8%). The rate was higher than the statewide rate (4.0%) and the national rate (3.7%). Seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 380 in July to 18,400 jobs. Seasonally adjusted figures compare expected changes with actual changes.
A gain of 320 jobs was expected for the month, but the county’s total nonfarm employment decreased by 60. Private-sector employment rose by 280 jobs, but government employment fell by 340. Leisure and hospitality added 260 jobs, and retail trade gained 50 jobs. Private education and health services shed 80 jobs over the month. Local government education cut 340 jobs, although much of this decrease may be due to how and when employees are paid over the summer break. Other industries had smaller changes.
July’s total nonfarm employment was 210 less than one year before, a decrease of 1.1 percent. The private sector added 30 jobs and government employment fell by 240. Industries adding the most jobs over the year were leisure and hospitality (+150 jobs) and food manufacturing (+70 jobs). Local government education cut 300 jobs over the year, professional and business services shed 60, and construction chopped 50 jobs.