The Inland Empire posted a 7.6 unemployment rate in April, essentially unchanged from March and well-below the 15.2 percent predicted one year ago, according to data released today.
Non-agricultural employment in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties increased by 6,700 jobs – to 1,513,200 – between March and April, the state Employment Development Department reported.
Leisure and hospitality added 4,500 jobs during that time, followed by professional and business services (up 2,600), accommodation and food services (up 4,400) and professional and business services (up 2,600).
Two industry sectors in the Inland region reported month-over-month job losses: government, which dropped 3,100 jobs, and trade, transportation, and utilities, which declined by 1,800 jobs.
Year-over-year, total non-farm employment in the Inland region increased by 146,300 jobs, a 10.7 percent improvement.
Also last month, California had an unadjusted unemployment rate of 8.1 percent while the nation’s jobless rated stood at 5.7 percent, according to the department.