Unemployment rates are down in Northwest Indiana, but so is the number of people working. Lake County's rate dropped from 5.5 percent in July to 5.2 percent in August, according to the latest report from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. Porter County's rate went from 3.7 to 3.2 percent.
But the number of residents employed actually decreased, as the labor force shrunk slightly, although that number is higher when compared to August of 2021. Still, some communities continue to see higher unemployment rates, with Gary's rate now at 9.3 percent.
Industries that saw significant job growth locally over the past year include construction, leisure and hospitality, and accommodation and food services.
