Mo. jobless rate falls to near seven-year low

Missouri’s unemployment rate dropped to 5.6 percent in November, the lowest rate since May 2008, according to seasonally adjusted data released this morning by the state Department of Economic Development.

Last month’s jobless rate dropped three-tenths of a point from October, according to a DED news release.

During the month, Missouri employers added 4,500 jobs to nonfarm payroll employment ranks.

Among growth industries were manufacturing, which generated 3,000 new jobs; professional and business services, 2,300; and transportation, warehousing and utilities, 1,500, according to the release.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. unemployment rate was 5.8 percent in November and the Springfield metropolitan statistical area rate dropped to 3.9 percent in October.