Indiana’s unemployment rate in September came in at 3.6%, according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD). By comparison, the national unemployment rate for September stands at 3.8%. Indiana’s total labor force was reported at 3,426,114, a decrease of 3,237 from August.
Indiana’s September labor force participation rate of 63.4% remained above the national rate of 62.8%. This rate is the percentage of Hoosiers 16 and older who are either working or actively looking for work. Those not in the labor force include, primarily, students, retirees, and other non-working populations, such as individuals unable to work due to a disability or illness, or adults responsible for their family’s childcare needs.
“Today’s tight labor market is evidence that now is a great time for Hoosiers to find their dream job or get started with training to pursue a new career,” said DWD Commissioner Richard Paulk.
Private sector employment in Indiana increased by 7,300 jobs over the last month, resulting in a gain of 44,200 jobs from this time last year. Indiana’s September private employment stands at 2,850,000, which is a new private employment peak.
Industries that experienced job increases in September included:
- Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (+5,600);
- Leisure and Hospitality (+3,000);
- Financial Activities (+700); and
- Manufacturing (+500).
As of Oct. 17, 2023, there were 106,807 open job postings throughout the state. In September, 14,348 unemployment insurance claims were filed in Indiana.
