New Unemployment Statistics

Sonora, CA — The unemployment rate in the State of California fell in January, but it increased in the Mother Lode region.

The state’s rate was 8.1% in January, compared to 8.5% in December. Tuolumne County’s rate increased to 9.7% in January and Calaveras County’s rate was up to 10.2%. According to Tuoloumne County Economic Development Authority Director Larry Cope, “Part of the reason is the “reduction” of staff at retail locations (after the holiday rush) and the lack of tourism jobs caused by the drought.”

The State of California reports that sectors that added jobs include manufacturing, financial services, health care, and educational services. Sectors that reported losses include construction, transportation, information services, leisure/hospitality, and government.

The statistics were compiled by the California Employment Development Department.