Jobless Rates Rise in September from Year Ago

The September jobless rate in Effingham County was at 3.4%, up from 2.5% in September 2022.

Total nonfarm employment in the county increased by 1,000 in September, an indication that more people re-entered the labor pool.

Employment gains were posted in government; construction; leisure and hospitality; educational and health services; other services; manufacturing; financial activities; professional and business services; trade, transportation and utilities; and natural resources and mining.

Over the year, nonfarm payrolls held steady in the information industry. No industry sectors recorded a net decrease in jobs.

As far as area counties, here are the numbers: 

Clay--5.9%, up from 3.7%

Coles--5%, up from 3.8%

Cumberland--3.6%, up from 2.9%

Shelby--4.8%, up from 3.4%

Fayette--4.8%, up from 3.4%

Jasper--4.1%, up from 3.1%

The statewide jobless rate in September was 4.9%, from 4.2% in September 2022.