Arkansas’s unemployment rate declines by 0.2%

Little Rock, Arkansas – The unemployment rate in Arkansas decreased by 0.2 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services.

The rate was 3.2% in February before falling to 0.2% in March.

ACLF summary:

• In March, Arkansas’ civilian labor force increased by 1,828. There were 4,661 more employed and 2,833 fewer unemployed Arkansans, leading to a drop in the unemployment rate. Employment in the State has increased for six consecutive months. Arkansas’ labor force participation rate remained stable at 57.4% between February and March.
• Compared to March 2022, there are 10,118 additional employed in Arkansas. The unemployment rate is one-tenth of a percentage point lower with 2,225 fewer unemployed Arkansans. The labor force participation rate is down two-tenths of a percentage point over the year.

The Arkansas Nonfarm payroll job summary:

• In March, nonfarm payroll jobs in Arkansas rose 4,700 to total 1,350,900. Leisure and Hospitality added 2,500 jobs, largely in accommodation and food services (+2,000). Jobs in Construction increased by 1,000, related to seasonal hiring.
• Compared to March 2022, nonfarm payroll jobs are up 31,300. The largest gains were posted in Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (+7,800), Private Education and Health Services (+6,800), Leisure and Hospitality (+5,200), Construction (+3,600), and Manufacturing (+2,900).