Missouri jobless rate drops to 2008 levels

The unemployment rate in Missouri fell to 6.5 percent in October, its lowest point since September 2008.

The Missouri Department of Economic Development combined its September and October jobs report because of the federal shutdown. In September, the jobless rate decreased to 6.9 percent, according to a news release.

With the latest drop in October, the Missouri jobless rate has been lower than the national unemployment rate for 50 consecutive months. The U.S. jobless rate was 7.3 percent last month, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For the combined months of September and October, the Show-Me State's nonfarm payroll employment rose by 1,100 jobs, after revised figures point to a net gain of 12,200 jobs in August. September gains were led by the trade, transportation and utilities sector, where employment grew by 3,300 jobs. In October, the professional, scientific and technical services sector showed the most growth, with 1,700 jobs, the release said.