Unemployment rates (not seasonally adjusted) increased in 85 counties in November 2024, decreased in 12, and remained unchanged in three. Mitchell County had the highest unemployment rate at 8.9% while Orange and Currituck counties each had the lowest at 2.9%.
Fourteen of the state’s metro areas experienced rate increases and one decreased. Among the metro areas, Asheville had the highest rate at 6.1% while Wilmington had the lowest at 3%. The not seasonally adjusted statewide rate was 3.7%.
When compared to the same month last year, not seasonally adjusted unemployment rates increased in 79 counties, decreased in eight, and remained unchanged in 13. Twelve metro areas experienced rate increases over the year, two decreased, and one remained unchanged.
The number of workers employed statewide (not seasonally adjusted) decreased in November by 30,435 to 5,046,880, while those unemployed increased by 3,967 to 193,883. Since November 2023, the number of workers employed statewide decreased 21,571, while those unemployed increased 17,420.
It is important to note that employment estimates are subject to large seasonal patterns; therefore, the N.C. Commerce Department advises it is best to focus on over-the-year changes in the not seasonally adjusted estimates.