New Jersey jobless rate dips to 5.6 percent
New Jersey added 4,700 jobs in September, and the unemployment rate fell to 5.6 percent after August figures were revised upward by 1,700 jobs.
Bureau of Labor Statistics data released Thursday show New Jersey’s unemployment rate fell 0.1 percentage point from 5.7 percent in the previous month.
September’s report contrasts with August’s when officials said New Jersey added 13,800 jobs. Data now show the state added 15,500 jobs in August.
The summer months have seen ups and downs. The July report showed a contraction of almost 14,000 jobs.
Gov. Chris Christie, who is running for president, said the report is one sign of growth. In a statement he cited rising home sales and falling unemployment claims.
New Jersey’s rate is half a percentage point higher than the national figure.
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