Arizona’s unemployment rate rises to 9.3 percent in October despite job gains
By APThursday, November 19, 2009
Ariz. jobless rate rises to 9.3 percent in October
PHOENIX — Arizona’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 9.3 percent in October, from 9.1 percent in September, despite job gains in some sectors.
The state Department of Commerce reported on Thursday that total nonfarm employment rose by half a percent, with 13,200 jobs added in October. Six of the 11 major sectors had job gains, three showed losses and two were flat.
The private sector added 11,400 jobs, mostly in professional and business services, trade, transportation, utilities, and education and health services.
The Department of Commerce says the upcoming holiday season and winter visitors are driving the job increases.
National unemployment is at 10.2 percent, up from 9.8 in September.
Arizona has lost 291,200 jobs lost since the recession began in December 2007.
