State Unemployment Holds Steady in January

(Indianapolis, IN) – The State of Indiana’s unemployment rate in January stands at 3.5%, according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. By comparison, the national unemployment rate for January stands at 3.7%.

In addition, Indiana’s labor force participation rate stands at 63.0% for January, remaining above the national rate of 62.5%. This rate is the percentage of Hoosiers 16 and older that are either working or actively looking for work. Those not in the labor force include, primarily, students, retirees and other non-working populations, such as individuals unable to work due to a disability or illness, or adults responsible for their family’s childcare needs.

Indiana’s total labor force stands at 3,398,047 – a decrease of 10,628 from the previous month.

“Indiana has carried the momentum from a strong economy in 2023 into 2024,” said DWD Commissioner Richard Paulk. “The unemployment rate of 3.5% remains near historic lows and remains below the national average. Additionally, Indiana has again set a new peak for private sector employment.”

Private sector employment in Indiana increased by 10,500 jobs over the last month, resulting in a gain of 42,000 jobs from this time last year. Indiana’s January private employment stands at 2,845,300.

Industries that experienced job increases in January included:

  • Construction (+2,700);
  • Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+2,700); and
  • Private Educational and Health Services (+1,900).

As of March 4, 2024, there were 98,653 open job postings throughout the state. As of the week ending on Feb. 24, 2024, Indiana had 26,379 continued unemployment insurance claims filed.

Individuals looking for work, training or career information are encouraged to visit in.gov/dwd/job-seekers.

(Indiana Department of Workforce Development press release) 

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