The above chart is of the 10 worst job markets in the U.S as measured by the year-0ver-year change in the unemployment rate. The measure is from June 2008 to June 2009. For example, Bend, Oregon had an unemployment rate of 6.8% in June 2008, and in June 2009 had an unemployment rate of 14.8%. So the year-over-year change in its unemployment rate is 8% (or 800 basis points).
Data source:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
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The above charts show the best and worst job markets in the U.S. as measured by the unemployment rate. All markets are based on metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs).
Later today the national unemployment numbers are released for April 2009. I will try to get a chart out showing the data this morning. I will also include some information on the suffering rate (or true unemployment rate). So check back.
Data Source:
Bureau of Labor Statistics
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The above chart shows the worst 25 job markets in the U.S. as measured by the unemployment rate in metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs). The data is as of February 2009 (the most current information available). Nine of the worst 10 job markets are in California. It seems to me that a large portion of California is in a depression (based on employment). This chart represents offical unemployment numbers. When you add in the underemployed and those that have dropped out of the labor force (but want a job) the unemployment numbers roughly double (based on national calculations).
Data Source:
> Bureau of Labor Statistics
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