North Raleigh Today

Unemployment rates in North Carolina showed a decrease in 95 counties during February 2025, according to newly released data. Rates increased in four counties and stayed the same in one. The highest unemployment rate was recorded in Hyde County at 8.6 percent, while Camden County registered the lowest at 2.6 percent. All metro areas in the state saw declines in their unemployment rates. Asheville had the highest metro unemployment rate at 5.5 percent, whereas Raleigh had the lowest at 3.0 percent. The overall state unemployment rate, not adjusted for seasonal variations, was 3.7 percent.

In February, 91 counties had unemployment rates of 5 percent or lower, nine counties recorded rates between 5 percent and 10 percent, and no counties reported rates above 10 percent. Comparatively, January figures had 80 counties at 5 percent or below and 20 between 5 percent and 10 percent.

Compared to February of the previous year, unemployment decreased in 71 counties, increased in 21, and remained the same in eight. Twelve of the state's metro areas saw decreases over the year, while one increased and two remained unchanged.

The state's total number of employed workers, not seasonally adjusted, decreased by 2,690 in February to 5,075,410. The number of unemployed workers decreased by 14,166 to 195,636. Compared to February 2024, the employed workforce grew by 15,202 and the unemployed population decreased by 3,891.

Employment estimates are often affected by significant seasonal patterns. Therefore, annual changes in not seasonally adjusted estimates are crucial for accuracy.

The next report, providing the statewide unemployment rate for March 2025, will be published on April 17, 2025.

An additional note for editors mentions that supplemental data for this release is now available through a live online dashboard. Tables and charts are included in the attached PDF, and more information can be obtained by contacting Commerce Communications.