Minnesota unemployment slightly lower in September, more than 17K jobs gained

(ABC 6 News) – New data released from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development shows the state gained just over 17,000 jobs and the state’s unemployment rate went slightly down.

The unemployment rate went down by a tenth of a percentage point to 3.7% in September while the national unemployment rate dropped four-tenths of a percentage point to 4.8%.

Between February and April of 2020, Minnesota lost 416,300 jobs and has since gained back about 70% of the jobs lost on a seasonally adjusted basis.

“Job growth is up, and so are wages – that’s a good thing,” said DEED Commissioner Steve Grove.

“Still, our labor market is incredibly tight, and our agency is committed to continuing to invest in innovative partnerships and solutions to help businesses find workers.”

Average wages both in Minnesota and across the U.S. have gone up over the past year. Average hourly earnings for all private-sector workers rose 25 cents to $32.97 in September over the month. Over the year, average hourly earnings rose $1.17, up 3.7% and since September 2019 they are up 7.4%.

For full details visit the DEED website by clicking here.