The Alaska Department of Labor released its November unemployment numbers last week, and the seasonally adjusted rate for Alaska is holding steady at 6.4 percent. The rate has not changed since August. The national average was also the same as October, which was 5 percent. As noted by the Department of Labor, throughout 2015 Alaska’s unemployment has been mostly flat, which suggests that the low oil prices have not taken a significant toll.
The not-seasonally adjusted rates rose, which is common this time of year. The Denali Borough saw the largest increase in unemployment as the park is shut down for the winter. Skagway and Kusilvak Census area have the highest rates at 20.7 percent and 19.4 percent, respectively. Denali is third with 17.2 percent, which is 7.7 points higher than October.
The Aleutians West Census area has the lowest unemployment at 3.8 percent. Juneau is close behind with 4.7 percent unemployment. Urban areas are typically below the state’s average, especially during the winter months.
Employment is holding steady and next month, we will be able to compare the full year and predictions for 2016 will start to roll in. For full employment data, visit http://live.laborstats.alaska.gov/
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