Flathead posts 3.4% jobless rate, strong workforce growth

Flathead County posted an unemployment rate of 3.4% in July, just a shade lower than the statewide jobless rate of 3.6%, according to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

By comparison, Flathead County had 3.3% unemployment rate in July 2019, when the local economy was robust prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The national unemployment rate was 5.4% for July; that compares to 3.7% in 2019.

Flathead County reported a current workforce of 51,517 workers, an increase of 3,183 from a year ago.

Sanders County reported 4% unemployment in July, while Lincoln County posted 5.2% and Lake County came in at 3.8%.

The Blackfeet Indian Reservation had 10.9% unemployment in July, while the Flathead Reservation was at 4%.

The state labor force had strong growth over the month.

"Montana continues to attract workers back into our labor force, helping to alleviate pressure on employers who are looking to hire," Gov. Greg Gianforte said in a news release. "This report is good news for Montana businesses in the midst of the summer travel season and good news for workers who are enjoying higher wages as our economy makes a comeback from the Covid-19 pandemic."

Montana's total workforce, which includes payroll, agricultural and self-employed workers, grew by 2,162 in July, with strong growth in the labor force of 1,999 workers. Payroll jobs increased by 3,300 jobs in July. Accommodation and food services had strong growth with 2,900 jobs added.

The Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers increased 0.5% over the month in July. The 12-month increase was 5.4%, similar to a 12-month increase last month and signaling a moderation in inflationary pressure.

Prices of used cars and trucks and energy commodities remain high compared to a year ago. The index for items other than food and energy, referred to as core inflation, increased 0.3% in July, with the 12-month increase lowering to 4.3% from 4.5% last month.