Unemployment rates slightly increased locally and statewide, according to county-by-county data released by Iowa Workforce Development this week.

In Marion County, 3.1% unemployment was reported in May, which is a step back from 2.7% in April. There are 17,740 individuals working, and 560 receiving benefits and seeking work. One year ago, the rate was 7.1% locally, attributed to closures related to COVID-19. Unemployment was at 2% in May of 2019.

In Warren County, 3.6% unemployment was reported in May, which is slightly worse than the 3.3% rate from April. The number of employed residents is at 26,900 and 1,000 individuals are considered unemployed but seeking work. One year ago, the rate was 7.1% locally, attributed to closures related to COVID-19. Unemployment was at 2.3% in May of 2019.

Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was at 3.9% last month, slightly increased from 3.8% in April. The state’s jobless rate was 8.3% one year ago and 2.7% in 2019.