Berkeley Unemployment Goes Up in October

Most of the Lowcountry kept jobs steady in October, but Berkeley County's unemployment rate grew slightly, according to a release Tuesday from the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce. 

Berkeley County's rate increased slightly to 7.4 percent from 7.3 percent in September. A year ago, Berkeley's unemployment rate was at 9.3 percent, according to state estimates.

For the second straight month South Carolina's unemployment rate has fallen by a half a percentage point. DEW said Tuesday that the state's rate is now 8.6 percent. It's the lowest rate in nearly four years.

Dorchester County's unemployment remained at 6.7 percent in October. It was the same as September, but down from 8.1 percent in October 2011. Charleston County's unemployment rate was also unchanged at 6.5 percent. That's down from 8 percent in October 2011. 

Across the state, the number of unemployed people decreased over the month by 10,814 to 183,024, while the number of employed people climbed by 14,705 to 1,954,801. The labor force increased by 3,891 to 2,137,825.

The sector receiving the most gains was government which added approximately 5,100 jobs, thanks to increases in local and state education services.

The Trade, Transportation, and Utilities, Financial Activities, Education and Health Services, and Construction sectors also added workers. The DEW said these were due to growth in Trade as the holidays approach and more demand for private educational and specialty trade contractor services.

Leisure and Hospitality and Information lost jobs due to seasonal declines. Other sectors were unchanged.

“Today’s announcement marks the state’s lowest unemployment rate in nearly four years, as well as the second consecutive month that the unemployment rate has continued a steady decline,” said SC Department of Employment and Workforce Executive Director Abraham J. Turner. “While this is certainly welcome news, DEW will continue to work diligently with businesses as it remains steadfast and focused on its efforts to put South Carolinians back to work.”