State Unemployment Rate Remains At 3.3 Percent

In January, Montana’s labor force increased to an all-time high, while the state’s total employment continued to grow, according to data compiled by Department of Labor and Industry and the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Montana’s unemployment rate held steady in January at 3.3 percent. The unemployment rate for the U.S. was also unchanged at 3.7 percent.

Montana’s labor force reached a record high in January after adding over 10,000 people in 2023, helping to alleviate labor shortages throughout the state.

Roosevelt County ranks 38th in the state with unemployment at 4.5 percent. Valley County is tied for 18th at 3.5 percent. Richland County is 15th at 3.3 percent.

The five counties with the lowest unemployment are Fallon at 1.9 percent, Carter at 2, Daniels at 2.2, McCone at 2.3 and Liberty at 2.4.

The counties with the highest unemployment are Mineral at 8.1, Lincoln at 8, Sanders at 7.2, Granite at 7.2 and Glacier at 6.4.

Total employment, which includes payroll, agricultural and self-employed workers, increased in January, while the labor force added 400 workers. Payroll jobs increased by 300 in January. Construction and health care employment grew over the month, while employment declined in leisure and hospitality.