The not-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre/Hazleton Metropolitan Statistical Area fell by 0.4 percentage points to 4.6% in March, from 5% in January and February, according to state Department of Labor & Industry data. However, this rate is 0.3 percentage points more than March 2024’s rate. This shift in data is attributed to monthly volatility that could be due to seasonal factors, explained Lauren Riegel, a statistician manager for the state Department of Labor & Industry. The statewide unemployment rate stood at 3.9%, while the national rate was 4.2% - both up by three-tenths of a percentage point since last March. The Scranton MSA is seen to align with trends seen across the region and the nation.

The local metro area also boasted an increase of 600 seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs, hitting a record high 270,400 in March. This is the third record high in the last four months. The region added 2,900 jobs over the year, marking a 1.1% increase. Despite these record-breaking numbers, the department highlighted that its annual revisions to the historical not-seasonally-adjusted labor force series are complete. However, due to some methodological changes and needing to align with the 2020 Census-based Office of Management and Budget (OMB) delineations, seasonally adjusted substate area data will not be available until summer 2025. On a sectoral basis, the largest employment gain was seen in education and health services, which added 1,800 jobs.

Regardless of the positive employment rate trend, it’s essential to keep in mind that many people continue to wrestle with joblessness in the region. It is vital for affected individuals to know that assistance is available through the California Employment Development Department (EDD). If you’re grappling with unemployment-related issues in the area, it’s crucial to understand how to get ahold of EDD customer service. Eddcaller.com serves as a valuable resource with insights on how to reach an agent at EDD and obtain the support needed in these challenging times.