March 25, 2011
News Release
INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana’s preliminary seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate dropped 0.3 percent, to 8.8 percent in February. This marks the first time since December 2008 the state’s unemployment rate has been less than 9 percent. Indiana’s rate is now just below the national average of 8.9 percent and below that of all neighboring states. Private sector employment in Indiana declined in February, (-1,600).
“The number of Hoosiers claiming state unemployment insurance benefits is less than half the number it was two years ago,” said Mark W. Everson, Commissioner of the Department of Workforce Development. “Moreover, new claims for unemployment insurance are now at a level not seen since 2006.”
Employment by Sector
Sectors showing significant employment gains in February include: Private Education and Health Services (1,300) and Construction (1,200). Sectors showing significant declines are Trade, Transportation and Utilities (-3,200) and Government (-6,300). Total non-farm employment decreased (-7,900) in February.
Click here for ranking of Indiana counties by unemployment rate.
Click here for Indiana unemployment rate map.
Click here for labor force estimates.
Midwest Unemployment Rates:
Indiana
Feb. 2010: 10.7%
Jan. 2011: 9.1%
Feb. 2011: 8.8%
Monthly Change: -0.3%
U.S.
Feb. 2010: 9.7%
Jan. 2011: 9.0%
Feb. 2011: 8.9%
Monthly Change: -0.1%
Illinois
Feb. 2010: 11.1%
Jan. 2011: 9.0%
Feb. 2011: 8.9%
Monthly Change: -0.1%
Kentucky
Feb. 2010: 10.9%
Jan. 2011: 10.4%
Feb. 2011: 10.4%
Monthly Change: n/c
Michigan
Feb. 2010: 13.5%
Jan. 2011: 10.7%
Feb. 2011: 10.4%
Monthly Change: -0.3%
Ohio
Feb. 2010: 10.6%
Jan. 2011: 9.3%
Feb. 2011: 9.2%
Monthly Change: -0.1%
Source: Indiana Department of Workforce Development
