Arkansas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 3.7% in March, ticking up from 3.6% in February, according to data released Friday by the Arkansas Department of Commerce and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The national unemployment rate also increased by one-tenth of a percentage point, reaching 4.2% in March.
The state’s labor force grew slightly over the month, with 260 additional individuals, including 502 more unemployed job seekers and 242 fewer employed Arkansans. The labor force participation rate held steady at 58.4%.
Compared to March 2024, Arkansas has seen a gain of 15,686 employed residents and 4,739 more individuals actively seeking work.
Nonfarm payroll employment in Arkansas rose by 5,200 jobs in March, bringing the total to 1,378,100. The largest employment gains were seen in Leisure and Hospitality (+3,200), Manufacturing (+1,200), Construction (+1,100), and Private Education and Health Services (+1,100). Professional and Business Services experienced the most significant monthly decline, losing 2,100 jobs.
Over the year, the state added 13,000 jobs. The most notable annual increase came in Private Education and Health Services, which gained 7,500 jobs, including 7,100 in healthcare and social assistance. Other industries showing growth included Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+4,700) and Manufacturing (+2,100).
For more information, visit www.discover.arkansas.gov.
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