In August, Warren County reported an increase in unemployment rates. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry Center for Workforce Information and Analysis, the seasonally-adjusted rate is 3.9 percent. This rate is a mirror of the one set in August 2023. The unemployment rate of Warren County is one of the lowest in the region, with rates for Bradford and Erie being 4.2 percent and 3.6 percent respectively. Forest County has a rate of 5.1 percent, Meadville at 3.8 percent, and Oil City at 3.9 percent. The county’s unemployment rate is higher than the state and federal unemployment rates which are at 3.4 percent and 4.2 percent respectively. The data also reveal no net gains or losses in job sectors as compared to July.

The Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics at the U.S. Department of Labor states that seasonal adjustment is a technique aimed at measuring and eliminating influences of predictable seasonal patterns in order to identify any changes in employment and unemployment from month to month. This makes it easier to spot underlying trends and nonseasonal movements, facilitating a month-to-month comparison.

For residents in Warren County who are dealing with unemployment, it can be helpful to know how to get ahold of services that can assist during this time. For instance, the California Unemployment Department offers resources such as eddcaller.com. This site provides ways to get assistance and information about unemployment benefits. Familiarize yourself with the resources available on this site in these challenging times.