Unemployment rates declined locally and statewide, according to county-by-county data released by Iowa Workforce Development at the end of August.

In Marion County, 3.1% unemployment was reported in July, down from 3.5% in June. There are 17,780 individuals working, and 560 receiving benefits and seeking work. One year ago, the rate was 6% locally, attributed to closures related to COVID-19. Unemployment was at 2.3% in July of 2019.

In Warren County, 3.4% unemployment was reported in July, down from 4% in June. The number of employed residents is at 27,700 and 1,000 individuals are considered unemployed but seeking work. One year ago, the rate was 5% locally, attributed to closures related to COVID-19. Unemployment was at 2.6% in July of 2019.

Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was at 4% last month, maintained from June. Statewide data showed 5.9% unemployment in 2020 and 2.8% in 2019.