Even though September’s unemployment rate increased, the Mississippi Department of Employment Security’s data shows that Lincoln County’s labor force has increased.

August’s rate dropped to 5.4 percent, and September’s rate increased slightly to 5.7. July’s rate was 6.4. Both numbers are below the state averages: 5.7 in August and 5.9 in September. They are above the U.S. averages: 5.1 in August and September.

The lowest unemployment rate in September was in Rankin County at 3.7. The highest was in Issaquena and Jefferson counties at 11.8.

August saw a decrease in the labor force before it bounced back in September. July’s labor force was 14,390 strong. That number dropped to 14,170 in August and bounced back to 14,380 in September.

With the increase in labor force, Lincoln County also saw an increase in unemployment numbers. In July 920 people were unemployed. The unemployed number dropped in August to 770 and increased slightly to 820 in September. Mississippi Department of Employment services reports that as of Nov. 11, there are 260 job openings in Lincoln County.

New unemployment claims continued to drop from July’s 74. August had 48 new claims, and September had 39. Lincoln County had $79,622 in unemployment benefits paid, which is a decrease from $88,803 in 2014.

Over the past 12 months, Lincoln County has averaged an unemployment rate of 6.1 with a labor force of 13,810. On average, 840 people have been unemployed. The average hourly wage is $15.98.

For more information, visit mdes.ms.gov.