Yakima's unemployment rate stands at third highest in Washington State

YAKIMA- On a seasonally adjusted basis, preliminary estimates from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicate nonfarm employment in Washington increased by 5,300 in March 2024.

BLS estimates that employment in the private sector expanded by 2,900 jobs over the month and employers in the public sector added 2,400 jobs. On a not seasonally adjusted basis, estimates for March 2023 through March 2024 indicate an increase in employment of 57,800 for the state. The private sector added 34,200 jobs while the public sector gained an estimated 23,600 jobs over the year. Washington’s preliminary seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for March 2024 was 4.8%.

The revised estimated unemployment rate for February 2024 was 4.7%. The unemployment rate in March 2023 was 4.5%. BLS estimates of monthly job gains and losses are based on a survey of businesses. Preliminary estimates are subject to revision.

The February 2024 preliminary estimated addition of 2,600 jobs was revised up to a gain of 3,900 jobs.

Yakima County's unemployment rate stands at 8.1% for March 2024, with only two other counties in the State of Washington (Ferry and Wahkiakum) recording higher rates.

Kittitas County recorded an unemployment rate of 6.3% for the same period.