Tennessee Unemployment Holds Steady at 3.6% in September

Tennessee’s unemployment rate remained steady at 3.6% in September, according to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The release of September data was delayed due to disruptions at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics during the federal government shutdown.

The state’s rate was below the national rate of 4.4%. Between August and September, Tennessee added 3,400 nonfarm jobs, with the largest gains in accommodation and food services, durable goods manufacturing, and government. Over the past year, employers added 35,800 nonfarm jobs, led by growth in government, leisure and hospitality, and professional and business services.

County-level data showed nearly all Tennessee counties had unemployment rates under 5% in September. Only four counties recorded rates of 5% or higher, with Perry County highest at 5.6%. Sevier and Williamson counties reported the lowest rates at 2.8%, while Cheatham County was at 2.9%.

From August to September, unemployment rates decreased in 27 counties, remained the same in 39, and increased in 29. County rates are not seasonally adjusted.

TDLWD will provide updates on October and November unemployment data as information becomes available.