County Jobless Rate 3.8 Percent

Montana’s unemployment rate continued its decline in February, down 0.1 of a percentage point from January to 4.3 percent. The U.S. unemployment rate decreased by 0.2 percentage points to 5.5 percent.

Valley County's employment rate remains strong. The county's unemployment rate in February was 3.8 percent. The county had 4,275 people employed, 211 more than one year earlier.

“Job creation in the state continues to be good news for Montana,” said Labor Commissioner Pam Bucy. “Two years ago, our focus was to find jobs for workers. With our strong economy, our task is now to find workers for jobs.”

Montana’s total employment levels increased by 2,921 jobs in February. Over-the-year employment growth of roughly 7,700 jobs indicates strong job growth of 1.6 percent. Total employment estimates include payroll employment, plus agricultural and self-employed workers. Payroll employment estimates indicate a gain of 2,000 jobs over the month.