Combined unemployment in the Mahoning Valley increased in May

Combined unemployment in the Mahoning Valley increased in May

Combined unemployment in the Mahoning Valley increased in May when compared to a year ago, according to data released today by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

The jobless rate across the Valley last month was 7.7 percent, up from 7.2 percent in May 2012.

A closer look at the data, though, shows that the number of unemployed increased significantly in the Valley, growing by 1,300 people year-over-year. At the same time, the number of those employed decreased by 2,200 people and the civilian labor force shrank by 1,000.

Both Columbiana and Mahoning County had the same jobless rate of 7.7 percent in May, while Trumbull County’s rate was slightly lower at 7.6 percent last month.