Oregon's Unemployment Rate Improved to 8.7 Percent in September

Oregon's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 8.7 percent in September, down slightly from 8.9 percent in August, and improved from the 9.4 percent rate in September 2011. Throughout 2012, Oregon's unemployment rate has remained between 8.4 percent and 8.9 percent.

In September 150,378 Oregonians were unemployed, marking the fewest number of unemployed persons in the state since October 2008. The number of unemployed Oregonians declined by 25,942 between September 2011 and September 2012.

From September 2011 to September 2012, estimates from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted job gain of 10,100 jobs (+0.6%) in Oregon. The private sector added 15,700 jobs over the year, with the largest contributions coming from trade, transportation, and utilities (+7,700 jobs); manufacturing (+2,200); and leisure and hospitality (+2,100). Government employment dropped by 5,600 jobs over the year.

Preliminary estimates from analysts at the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted decline of 7,900 jobs in Oregon in September. Revised employment estimates for September will be published along with preliminary estimates of October employment on Wednesday, November 14th.

More information about Oregon's employment situation is available in the full news release at QualityInfo.org.