Unemployment Rate Holds Steady

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Indiana's unemployment rate is unchanged from a month ago. The state says the May rate was 5.7 percent, which ends a streak of nine consecutive monthly declines. Indiana added 4,800 private sector jobs in May. June 20, 2014

News Release

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Indiana's seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate held steady in May at 5.7 percent, mainly due to approximately 2,000 unemployed Hoosiers returning to the labor force to look for work. Indiana's rate of unemployment remains more than one-half of a percentage point below the national rate. Indiana's labor force gains also continue to outpace the national rate, as the Hoosier labor force has grown by more than 46,000 over the past year, while U.S. increases have been minimal.

Indiana added 4,800 private sector jobs in May, led by the Private Educational & Health Services (+2,100) and Professional & Business Services Sectors (+1,000). Since July of 2009, the low point of employment in the state, Indiana has added nearly 223,000 private sector jobs.

“The Hoosier labor force has grown significantly for the past eight months in a row,” said Scott B. Sanders, Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. “This is not the case with some of our neighboring states who have experienced unemployment rate declines due to decreases in their labor force. It is clear that Hoosiers are going back to work and that good jobs are available.”

Sanders also noted claims for state unemployment insurance in May were more than 10,000 below May 2013 levels. Initial claims and continued claims remain at levels not seen since 2000.

Employment by Sector

Sectors showing gains in May include: Private Educational & Health Services (2,100), Professional & Business Services (1,000), Leisure and Hospitality (800), Construction (800), and Manufacturing (300). The Trade, Transportation & Utilities (-1,100) and Financial Activities (-700) sectors declined in May. Total non-farm employment increased in May (5,000).

Source: The Indiana Department of Workforce Development