Raleigh, N.C. — Unemployment rates (not seasonally adjusted) increased in 83 of North Carolina’s counties in July 2024, decreased in three, and remained unchanged in 14. Scotland County had the highest unemployment rate at 7.8 percent while Dare County had the lowest at 3.2 percent. Twelve of the state’s metro areas experienced rate increases and three remained unchanged. Among the metro areas, Rocky Mount had the highest rate at 6.0 percent while Asheville had the lowest at 3.3 percent. The not seasonally adjusted statewide rate was 4.3 percent.

When compared to the same month last year, not seasonally adjusted unemployment rates increased in 98 counties and decreased in two. All fifteen metro areas experienced rate increases over the year.

The number of workers employed statewide (not seasonally adjusted) decreased in July by 1,753 to 5,073,877, while those unemployed increased by 10,557 to 225,504. Since July 2023, the number of workers employed statewide decreased 13,213, while those unemployed increased 35,437.

It is important to note that employment estimates are subject to large seasonal patterns; therefore, it is advisable to focus on over-the-year changes in the not seasonally adjusted estimates.

The next unemployment update is scheduled for Friday, September 20, 2024 when the statewide unemployment rate for August 2024 will be released.