Unemployment rates fell in 82 Kentucky counties between October 2015 and October 2016, rose in 33 and stayed the same in five counties (Breckinridge, Knott, Laurel, McLean and Powell), according to the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training, an agency of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet.

Woodford County recorded the lowest jobless rate in the Commonwealth at 3 percent. It was followed by Oldham and Shelby counties, 3.1 percent each; Fayette and Spencer counties, 3.3 percent each; Warren County, 3.4 percent; and Anderson, Boone, Campbell and Scott counties, 3.5 percent each.

Magoffin County recorded the state’s highest unemployment rate at 14.1 percent. It was followed by Leslie County, 11.6 percent; Harlan County, 10.5 percent; Letcher County, 10.3 percent; Elliott County, 10.1 percent; Floyd County, 9.9 percent; Pike County, 9.6 percent; Knott County, 9.5 percent; and Clay and Perry counties, 9.3 percent each.

In contrast to the monthly national and state data, unemployment statistics for counties are not seasonally adjusted. The comparable, unadjusted unemployment rate for the state was 4.6 percent for October 2016, and 4.7 percent for the nation.

To view a set of maps detailing these monthly numbers, click here. For PDF charts of the data, click here.

To access Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS) data click here.

Learn more about the Office of Employment and Training at www.workforce.ky.gov.