Wyoming Unemployment Rate Unchanged in April
by: David Bullard, Senior Economist

"April estimates show an increase of 900 jobs or 5.6 percent in the Construction industry."

Wyoming’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained 4.0 percent for the second month in a row, only slightly higher than the U.S. average of 3.9 percent and well below its April 1999 level of 4.9 percent.

Establishment survey data show that Wyoming added 3,300 new jobs in April for a growth rate of 1.5 percent. In contrast, the U.S. employment growth rate was 2.3 percent.

Continuing the pattern seen in previous months, large over-the-year employment gains were reported in the Construction industry. April estimates show an increase of 900 jobs or 5.6 percent, with the majority of new jobs in Heavy Construction. Mining gained 400 jobs or 2.7 percent as a result of increased activity in the Oil & Gas industry. Other large employment gains were seen in Trade (800 jobs or 1.6%) and Government (400 jobs or 0.7%).

Employment growth in Wyoming’s two metropolitan areas was slower than the statewide average. Casper’s employment grew 400 jobs or 1.3 percent, with the largest job gains in Mining and Retail Trade. Employment in Cheyenne increased by 300 jobs or 0.8 percent. In Cheyenne, job gains in Federal Government and Construction were partially offset by job losses in the Services and Finance, Insurance, & Real Estate (FIRE) industries.

After falling slightly in March, labor force increased by 447 individuals or 0.2 percent in April. The number of unemployed individuals in Wyoming fell by 2,481 or 18.3 percent.

Unemployment Insurance (UI) claims continued to fall in April. Initial and additional claims decreased by 431 or 33.9 percent, while continued claims fell by 4,919 or 30.6 percent. The decline in continued claims was widespread, with declines reported in all areas of the state except Johnson County.

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