MO unemployment rate edges down to 8.2%

Missouri, along with 42 other states and Washington, D.C., recorded unemployment rate decreases in November. Three states posted increases, while four others saw no change, according to data released Tuesday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Missouri's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped three-tenths of a point to 8.2 percent in November from 8.5 percent in October.

The state's unemployment rate was equal to the November average for the Midwest region, and lower than the U.S. average, which was 8.6 percent.

During the month, nonfarm payroll employment increased in 29 states and the District of Columbia, decreased in 19 states, and was unchanged in two states, the release said.

Missouri's November nonfarm payroll employment was 2.6 million, down slightly from 2.7 million in October.[[In-content Ad]]