State jobless rate up slightly in July

Indianapolis, IN — Indiana’s unemployment rate in July went up slightly. 

According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, the state jobless rate stood at 2.6%, which was up from 2.4% in June.

By comparison, the national unemployment rate in July fell to 3.5%, compared to 3.6% in June.

Indiana has had a jobless rate below 3% for 10 consecutive months.

In addition, Indiana’s labor force participation rate rose again, from 63.1% in June to 63.3% in July, remaining above the national rate of 62.1%. Indiana’s total labor force, which includes both Hoosiers employed and those seeking employment, stands at 3,393,968 — an increase of 15,331 from the previous month. This is the highest level since December 2019.

“Hoosiers’ participation rate in the labor force continues to climb, and there remains a wide range of opportunities for individuals looking to resume their careers or begin their search for their next one,” said DWD Interim Commissioner Josh Richardson. “Job openings remain high, and employers are ready to add new, ready-to-learn workers and provide the necessary training to get them on their team.”

Private sector employment in Indiana increased by 2,900 jobs over the last month, translating to a gain of 77,000 jobs from this time last year. Indiana once again is experiencing a peak in private employment, which now stands at 2,767,300. Industries that experienced job increases in July included:

  • Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+4,500);
  • Private Educational and Health Services (+2,500); and
  • Financial Activities (+300).

As of last month, there were more than 150,000 open job postings throughout the state. The number of people in Indiana that received unemployment benefits during July was 15,366.