State Hits Record Low For Unemployment
Montana’s unemployment rate hit a new record low in December, dropping another 0.3 percentage points to end the year at 2.5 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The number of unemployed Montanans is at its lowest level since BLS began the data series in 1976.
“After just one year, our Montana Comeback Plan is working. Our unemployment rate is the lowest it’s ever been, and more Montanans are working than ever before in our state’s history,” Gov. Gianforte said. “With lower taxes and responsible, responsive government, our economy is going again, we’re open for business, and Montanans are back to work. Great work, Montana!”
The number of unemployed Montanans also dropped to a record low of 13,689, falling by 1,719 from November. Montana’s total employment hit a record high in December at 531,040. Total employment, which includes payroll, agricultural, and self-employed workers, grew by 3,137 in December, the largest single month gain in 2021. Payroll employment also increased by 3,200 with strong job growth in retail.
The unemployment rate for the U.S. dropped to 3.9 percent.
Roosevelt County is tied for 40th with the highest amount of unemployment at 2.2 percent. Mineral County has the highest unemployment at 4.7 percent.
The four counties with the lowest unemployment rate are McCone at 1.1, Daniels at 1.2, Sweet Grass at 1.2 and Gallatin at 1.3. Tied for fifth at 1.4 percent are Fallon, Petroleum and Sheridan.
Valley County is tied for 16th at 1.7 percent. Richland County ranks 27th at 1.9 percent. Phillips County is 37th at 2.1 percent.
