Nevada’s unemployment rate down in September to 5.8 percent

The unemployment rate in September fell to a seasonally-adjusted 5.8 percent, down 0.5 of a percentage point from August.

“Following nearly six years of consistent job growth, I’m extremely encouraged by the fact that the Silver State has regained the 186,000 jobs lost during the recession,” said Governor Brian Sandoval in a press release. “Looking forward, I’m equally encouraged by our thriving existing community and continued economic development success. Projects such as the expansion of the convention center, Tesla, and Faraday Future will generate exciting job opportunities for all Nevadans and pave the way for continued long-term growth in our economy.”

While the Silver State experienced a seasonally adjusted decline of 1,500 jobs in September, there are still 2,000 more jobs than there were at the pre-recessionary high, said Bill Anderson, chief economist for the Research and Analysis Bureau of the Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation in a press release.

“Year-over-year, Nevada added a seasonally adjusted 34,300 jobs over September last year, for a growth rate of 2.7 percent,” Anderson said. “Notably, the state has exceeded national job gains for 50 consecutive months. The September decline in jobs is not cause for concern, as underlying trends suggest the Silver State has consistently been on the mend since the 2010 trough.”

Year-to-date, construction continues to lead the industrial super sectors in terms of percentage growth, up 9.5 percent over the same period last year, which equates to a gain of 6,500 jobs. The trade, transportation, and utilities sector realized the largest increase in terms of nominal growth during the first nine months of 2016, up 9,200 jobs, an increase of 3.9 percent relative to last year.