Arkansas’ unemployment rate in May, at 3.6%, was unchanged from the previous month.
The U.S. jobless rate was also unchanged at 3.6%, according to a report released Friday by the state Department of Workforce Services.
“Nonfarm payroll jobs rose 3,900 in May to hit a new record high. Two major industry sectors — Leisure and Hospitality and Other Services — reached record high levels. Compared to May 2018, nonfarm payroll jobs are up 14,300,” BLS Program Operations Manager Susan Price said in a news release.
Compared to May 2018, Arkansas’ nonfarm payroll employment is up by 14,300. Growth came in nine major industry sectors, while two sectors saw losses.
- Trade, transportation and utilities added 3,300 jobs.
- Jobs in manufacturing increased by 3,100.
- Employment in construction rose by 2,400.
- Leisure and hospitality gained 2,100 jobs, all in food services.
- Educational and health services gained 1,400 jobs, where gains in health care and social assistance offset a small decline in educational services.
- Jobs in the government sector also increased by 1,400.
- Other services added 900 jobs.
- Financial activities gained 200 jobs.
- Professional and business services added 100 jobs.
- Mining and logging lost 300 jobs, and information lost 300 jobs.
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