Missouri adds 8,100 jobs in July as unemployment falls to 3.6%

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri added 8,100 jobs in July as the state’s unemployment rate fell to 3.6%, according to new state labor data.

Most of the growth came from private employers, led by education and health services. Missouri has added nearly 30,000 jobs over the past year.

The number of unemployed Missourians also declined in July, falling by nearly 2,800 from June.

The Joplin metropolitan area also continued to add jobs. Seasonally adjusted employment increased by 300 jobs in July and was up 1,600 from a year earlier.

Health care remained one of the stronger sectors in the Joplin area, while manufacturing also posted year-over-year growth. Retail employment was slightly lower than a year ago.

The report also showed higher private-sector pay in Joplin. Average weekly earnings were about $1,036 in July, up from roughly $944 a year earlier.

Statewide, Missouri’s unemployment rate remained below the national rate in July.