States with the Lowest Unemployment for 2011
Workers around the country must compete heavily for jobs with a 9.0% national unemployment rate, as reported by theUnited States Department of Laborin November 2011. Unemployment numbers range greatly depending on the state, ranking from just 3.5% in North Dakota to 13.4% in Nevada. If you are out of work, consider a state with lower unemployment numbers.
North Dakota
With the lowest-in-the-nation unemployment rate, North Dakota is an ideal place to live. According toUSA Today, many of the cities have seen a boom in population, and economic prosperity has followed. The per capita income has also raised greatly in the rankings – 38th to 17th in 10 years. Part of the low unemployment rate can be attributed to the oil boom of the western areas. The state also holds a lush agricultural business, exporting wheat and various other crops. Even manufacturing jobs have grown. With its cold temperatures, it can be difficult to attract enough workers, evidenced by the fact that out-of-state job fairs lure workers from other states.
Nebraska
Many Nebraskans work in the field of agriculture. The state as a whole boasts a tiny 4.2 unemployment rate. Transportation also plays a role. Cautious housing growth has helped the state avoid the perilous effects of the housing bubble, which has helped to keep unemployment low.
South Dakota
A 4.5 unemployment rate makes South Dakota third in the nation. The fields of finance, health and retail are strong and provide jobs for those with many different skills and education levels. The military also has a strong presence in the state, with one of the largest employers being Ellsworth Air Force Base. Agriculture and livestock are also strong.
New Hampshire
With an unemployment rate of only 5.3, New Hampshire ranks with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country. The manufacturing industry has propelled jobs, including the production of rubber, textiles, plastics and machinery. Agriculture is also important. Products include dairy, eggs and apples. Hospitality jobs can also be found during the ski season.
Vermont
The low 5.6 unemployment rate of Vermont can be largely attributed to a strong farming presence. Logging and dairy production play a large role in this. Many also seek work in finance and government in this northern state.
If you are in the market for a job, you may want to consider one of the states with a low unemployment rate. National and local factors change these numbers regularly, and the updated numbers can be seen at theBureau of Labor Statistics.
