According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos MSA gained 2,800 jobs last month lowering the unemployment rate to 7.0%, down from its peak of 7.6% in January 2010. This is slightly below to the 4,500 job growth projection made in last month’s Job Growth update blog. The total number of non-agricultural employment in the MSA grew to 763,200 indicating an annual growth rate of 0.1%, which had been in negative territory since June 2009. Out of the total jobs gained, 54% was in Leisure and Hospitality, 25% was in Education and Health services, and 18% was in Professional & Business Services. While the gains may seem positive, they are in line with seasonal patterns. Next month, we should expect to see at least 5,000 jobs added based on last years’ figures. Finally, Austin's unemployment rate of 7.0% is still below the state (8.1%) and the national (9.5%) unemployment rates.
