OLYMPIA- On a seasonally adjusted basis, preliminary estimates from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicate nonfarm employment in Washington decreased by 100 in July 2024. BLS estimates that employment in the private sector expanded by 700 jobs over the month and employers in the public sector shed 800 jobs.
On a not seasonally adjusted basis, estimates for July 2023 through July 2024 indicate an increase in employment of 62,500 for the state. The private sector added 39,700 jobs while the public sector gained an estimated 22,800 jobs over the year.
Washington’s preliminary seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for July 2024 was 4.9%, up one tenth of one percent from 4.8% in June. The unemployment rate in July 2023 was 3.6%.
BLS estimates of monthly job gains and losses are based on a survey of businesses.
Preliminary estimates are subject to revision. The June 2024 preliminary estimated addition of 7,100 jobs was revised up to 8,700.
Local employment statistics for Yakima and Kittitas counties will be published the week of August 19th,
