Arkansas’ unemployment rate dropped by one-tenth of a percentage point in June, to 3.5% from 3.6% in May.
The U.S. jobless rate rose by one-tenth of a percentage point, from 3.6% in May to 3.7% in June, according to a report released Friday by the state Department of Workforce Services.
“Arkansas’ unemployment rate declined to 3.5% in June, setting a new record low. The addition of 1,949 employed Arkansans also set a new record, with employment reaching record high levels for the last five consecutive months,” BLS Program Operations Manager Susan Price said in a news release.
Compared to June 2018, Arkansas’ nonfarm payroll employment is up by 19,300. Growth came in nine major industry sectors, while two sectors saw slight losses.
- Leisure and hospitality gained 5,500 jobs, all in accomodation and food services.
- Jobs in manufacturing increased by 3,800.
- Employment in construction rose by 2,900.
- Trade, transportation and utilities added 2,400 jobs, all in retail and wholesale trade.
- Educational and health services gained 1,900 jobs.
- Professional and business services added 1,800 jobs.
- Financial activities gained 1,000 jobs.
- Government and other services added 200 jobs apiece.
- Mining and logging lost 300 jobs, and information lost 100 jobs.