The most recent unemployment data has been released for September, as a delay in the data occurred with the federal government shutdown. Compared to last year, Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was slightly higher at 3.7%. September of 2024 the unemployment rate for the state was 3.3%. 

The state’s labor force participation rate remained at 67.5% according to Iowa Workforce Development.

Washington County’s unemployment rate was 2.0% in September, a decrease from August’s 2.9% rate. The September unemployment rate of 2.0% was the same as a year ago. 

Marshall County had the highest unemployment rate at 4.8% in September while Sioux County recorded the lowest in the state at 1.8% unemployment.

Washington County is part of the Iowa City metropolitan statistical area (MSA) which grew by 1,100 positions between August and September. Looking at the employment in the MSA, 900 positions were added in the year. The increases included 700 positions in government employment. The private sector saw an increase of 100 positions in service providing and goods-producing sectors. Private education and health services all had increases in positions.