The state’s unemployment rate dipped to a historic low of 3.5 percent in July, equaling the national average, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
The rate marks the lowest unemployment level for the Keystone State since data tracking began in January 1976.
In comparison to July 2022, Pennsylvania’s rate has dropped a significant 0.8 percentage points from 4.3 percent, while the U.S. rate remained unchanged year over year.
The state’s civilian labor force, encompassing residents either employed or actively seeking work, saw a decrease of 9,000 in July. Despite this dip, resident employment recorded a growth of 6,000, and unemployment numbers shrank by 15,000.
Furthermore, the state’s nonfarm job sector showcased positive momentum, boasting an increase of 14,400 jobs in July, bringing the total to a groundbreaking 6,149,000. This growth represents the seventh consecutive month of record-setting employment levels in Pennsylvania.
Breaking down the numbers by industry, eight out of the 11 supersectors observed job increases. The education & health services sector led the way, adding 6,700 jobs to reach an unprecedented high. Likewise, the professional and business services sector ascended to record numbers, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
Year-over-year data reveals a robust performance across the board. All 11 supersectors posted gains, amounting to a whopping 143,100 additional jobs since last year. The education and health services sector shone the brightest, contributing 45,200 of the total increase.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Bucks County for June – the most recent month for which data are available – was 3.2 percent, a decrease from the previous month.
