Local unemployment rates increased for the second straight month in July, according to the latest data from Iowa Workforce Development.

The unemployment rate in Marion County rose to 2.4% last month, which is up from 2.2% in June. There are 19,020 residents employed in Marion County and 460 seeking work and receiving benefits. The rate also increased in Warren County, jumping up to 2.9% in July after recording just 2.6% in June. In Warren County, there are 28,600 employed residents and 900 individuals seeking work and receiving benefits. Jasper County’s unemployment rate saw a slight increase from 3.0% in June to 3.1% last month. There are 17,920 residents employed in Jasper County and 580 seeking work and receiving benefits.

Statewide, Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 2.8% last month, which matches the rate set in June, but is down from 3% in July 2023.