SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota employers added 1,500 jobs in August, while the state’s unemployment rate edged up one-tenth of a percentage point to 4.4%.
Over the past year, Minnesota employers have added more than 45,000 jobs, with eight of the state’s 11 major industry sectors reporting job growth.
DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek says the annual numbers show continued strength in the state’s economy.
“ Minnesota employers have added more than 45,000 jobs with growth across a range of industries. And to put that 45,000 in context, it amounts to a 1.5% increase, which is significantly higher than the national job growth rate of 0.3%.”
Varilek says the report presents a mixed picture, with strong annual job growth but a shrinking labor force and slower wage growth.
