According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos MSA gained 4,600 jobs last month lowering the unemployment rate to 7.1%, down from its peak of 7.6% in January 2010. This is close to the 5,000 job growth projection made in last month’s Job Growth update blog. The total number of non-agricultural employment in the MSA grew to 760,300 indicating an annual growth rate of -0.1%. Out of the total jobs gained, 46% was in Leisure and Hospitality, 30% was in Government, and 22% was in Trade, Transportation, and Utilities. While the gains may seem positive, they are in line with seasonal patterns. Next month, we should expect to see at least 4,500 jobs added based on last years’ figures. Finally, Austin's unemployment rate of 7.1% is still below the state (8.2%) and the national (10.2%) unemployment rates.
