Job growth stalled at the April level in May. The unemployment rate increased to 3.6% in the Johnson City, Kingsport-Bristol and Greeneville metro area.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 214,200 jobs in the region in May. That’s a seasonally adjusted increase of 1,900 from May last year. It’s also the same total from April.

The number of people who had jobs dropped by 1,854 from April, and the number who reported they were unemployed incensed to 9,430. The labor force declined by 967 people.

The monthly churn settled at a seasonally adjusted total of 2,500 fewer jobs in May. Almost all of it was in the government sector.

Jobs losses that were not part of the government sector included retail trade, financial services, and professional and business services. Leisure and hospitality and other services gained jobs.

Where Are the Jobs?

According to Jobs4TN and other state employment data:

• The number of health care and social assistance jobs increased to 1,379 from 771 in April. Salaries for those jobs range from $56,244 to $84,929. Health care and education account for most of the region’s top paying job growth.
• A total of 5,192 jobs are currently advertised across Northeast Tennessee, down from 5,253 in April.

Average Wage Overview

• The regional average wage stands at $28.08 per hour, compared to the state average of $33.70.
• Local wage growth has been moderate, with the most significant increases in healthcare and construction industries.

Employment Claims

The latest report shows:

• 572 claims. Most  are in the health care and social assistance sector.

Labor Force Participation

Washington County leads the region with a labor force participation rate (LFPR) of 59.4, down from 60.1%.

• The regional LFPR stands at 53.5%.
• Comparatively, the U.S. rate is 62.6%, and Tennessee’s is 62.3%.

County LFPR Breakdown:

• Unicoi  – 54.5%
• Sullivan – 54.6%
• Carter  – 51.7%
• Greene  – 48.8%
• Hawkins – 48.1%

Categories: LABOR MARKET