Montana’s unemployment rate rose slightly in July to 4 percent, an increase of 0.1 percentage point. Overall, Montana’s unemployment rate has fallen 0.6 percentage points in the past year.  The U.S. unemployment rate held steady at 5.3 percent.

“With strong job growth, and more people on the job than ever before, Montana’s economy continues to lead the nation,” Governor Steve Bullock said.  “We’ll continue to work to make sure workers have access to training opportunities that equip them with the skills to meet the demands of Montana employers.”

Total employment sits at 503,841 in Montana after July’s change. Overall, 11,311 jobs have been added in the past 12 months. Total employment estimates include payroll employment, plus agricultural and self-employed workers. Payroll employment added 700 jobs in July, and has now increased by 2,600 jobs since the beginning of the year.

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