St. Paul, Minn. – New data from July show that over the year, Minnesota added 44,092 jobs, a 1.5% increase that significantly outpaced the national job growth rate of 0.2% according to data released by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). Minnesota's private sector also grew 1.5% over the year compared with 0.5% nationally.

Minnesota's unemployment rate ticked down one-tenth of a percent to 4.3% in July, while the U.S. unemployment rate also declined one-tenth of a percent to 4.1%. Following three consecutive months of jobs growth that outpaced the nation, Minnesota saw a slight decline in jobs over the month in July (down 0.1%), while U.S. jobs growth was essentially flat.

"Despite a number of headwinds, Minnesota employers have added more than 44,000 jobs over the year, with growth across a broad range of industries," said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. "While monthly numbers can fluctuate, Minnesota's strong year-over-year growth shows the resilience of our diverse economy. We remain focused on connecting Minnesotans with good jobs and helping employers find the workers they need to grow."

Over the month, Minnesota lost 1,900 nonfarm jobs, or 0.1%, on a seasonally adjusted basis. At the same time, Minnesota's private sector lost 800 jobs, effectively remaining flat over the month. Nationally, nonfarm employment decreased by 23,000 jobs, also effectively flat, while across the U.S. private sector added 30,000 jobs.

Minnesota's labor force remained largely flat, with a decrease of 4,013 people over the month, a rate of 0.1%. Nationally, labor force decreased by 264,000 people, or 0.0%.

In a continuing trend, the state's labor force participation rate ticked down one-tenth of a percentage point to 66.9%, as did the nation's rate to 61.4%. Minnesota still has one of the highest labor force participation rates in the country.

"The July numbers show some cooling over the month, but the longer-term picture remains considerably stronger," said Angelina Nguyen, DEED Labor Market Information Director. "Minnesota's 1.5% over the year growth significantly outpaced the national rate, with eight of 11 major industry sectors adding jobs. At the same time, continued declines in labor force participation and wages are indicators we will continue watching closely."

Current employment statistics, full state and national employment statistics, and further analysis of this month's data are available on the DEED website. In addition, find related articles about job growth and labor market changes in the latest issue of Minnesota Employment Trends. Access resources to help Minnesotans prepare for and find employment now at CareerForce.MN.gov.