Iowa’s unemployment rate rose to 3.8 percent in August, according to data released Thursday by Iowa Workforce Development (IWD). According to the agency’s figures, the total number of Iowans without jobs rose from 64,900 in July to 65,800 in August. The increase in unemployment was somewhat offset by gains in the state’s labor force participation rate, which rose from 67.4 percent to 67.5 percent. The total number of working Iowans increased to 1,673,500, about 1,100 higher than in July and 13,200 more than a year ago. IWD Director Beth Townsend says, “August saw growth in both the number of Iowans in the labor force and the total number of working Iowans. Likewise, we’ve also seen a more than 10 percent reduction in the number of unemployment claims from the same time last year. Our investments in helping people find new jobs or the next job are paying off, and if you find yourself in that category, we can help.” Nonfarm employment grew by 3,600 jobs in August, driven by professional and business services with 1,800 jobs, leisure and hospitality adding 1,200, and trade industries growing by more than 1,000 jobs. Gains in those sectors were partially offset by losses in health care and social assistance, which declined by 800 jobs, and the construction industry lost 700 jobs. The U.S. unemployment rate also increased by 0.1 percentage points in August, rising from 4.2 percent to 4.3 percent. Local unemployment statistics are scheduled for release next week. For more information on Iowa’s job market, follow the link included with this story on our website.
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