Surry Business

North Carolina’s number of employed workers grew by 30,600 workers in September, but the unemployment rate increased slightly to 4.9 percent, according to statistics released today by the N.C. Employment Security Commission.

“Our state experienced growth in three areas during September,” said ESC Chairman Harry E. Payne Jr. “The labor force, the number of employed workers, and the number of unemployed people all increased from August. With the number of new jobs that have been announced recently, the outlook continues to appear good.”

Overall employment increased by 30,600 workers in September, to 4,324,635, and, the labor force increased by 37,222 people during the month to 4,546,961. Seasonally adjusted unemployment increased by 6,622 workers, to 222,326. Since this time last year, unemployment has decreased by 216 workers. The labor force, over the year, has increased by 56,734 people.

North Carolina’s unemployment rate of 4.9 percent remained above the U.S. rate of 4.7 percent. The state rate in August 2006 was 5.0 percent.