© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Michigan Unemployment Rate Down To 4.1 Percent In August

Workers
Pixabay Creative Commons

Michigan's unemployment rate fell by two-tenths of a percentage point to 4.1 percent in August.

Figures released Wednesday by the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget show Michigan's jobless rate was two-tenths of a percentage point higher than the national rate of 3.9 percent last month and five-tenths of a percentage point lower than the state's August 2017 rate of 4.6 percent.

The agency says total employment in Michigan changed little during the month while the number of unemployed fell by 11,000.

Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives Director Jason Palmer says Michigan's "unemployment rate decrease in August was primarily due to a reduction in the labor force as fewer individuals actively sought employment during the month."

With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.