Idaho’s 2.9% unemployment rate remains unchanged in September

Idaho’s 2.9% seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained unchanged in September for the third consecutive month.

Nonfarm jobs increased by 4,600 positions in September, marking the second-largest increase in the nation, according to the Idaho Department of Labor.

Eight of Idaho’s 11 industry sectors exceeded seasonal expectations, led by construction, professional and business services, and financial activities. The information and other services sectors lost a combined total of 400 jobs, while the natural resources sector remained steady, according to the department.

Seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs in the state increased 3.1% from September 2018, representing a gain of 22,600 positions.

Among the state’s metro areas, job growth in Idaho Falls grew the most rapidly in September, with a gain of 400 jobs. Idaho Falls also experienced the strongest seasonally adjusted year-over-year nonfarm job growth in the state, with addition of 2,700 jobs.