County Unemployment Rates Rise in June as Schools Break for Summer

Unemployment rates increased in 94 of Tennessee’s 95 counties during June as the annual summer break temporarily sidelined many school employees, according to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

The department said county unemployment rates are not seasonally adjusted, meaning they reflect temporary employment changes such as bus drivers, cafeteria workers, and custodial staff being out of work during the summer months.

Maury County was the only county to see its unemployment rate decline from May to June, falling one-tenth of a percentage point.

Across the state, 84 counties reported unemployment rates below 5 percent, while 11 counties recorded rates of 5 percent or higher.

Cheatham and Sevier counties posted Tennessee’s lowest unemployment rates in June at 3 percent.

Perry County had the state’s highest unemployment rate at 6 percent, followed by Hancock County at 5.7 percent and Pickett County at 5.6 percent.

The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development has released a complete analysis of the June county unemployment data and encourages job seekers to use the state’s Virtual American Job Center or visit a local American Job Center for employment assistance.

Statewide unemployment figures for July 2026 will be released on Thursday, August 20.