Las Vegas’ unemployment rate edged up to 5.7 percent in September from 5.6 percent in August, according to the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation. Statewide, Nevada’s seasonally adjusted jobless rate held steady at 5.3 percent—ranking third highest in the nation, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The metro-level jobless rate is not seasonally adjusted, meaning it reflects typical seasonal changes in employment. Despite recent challenges, including a drop in tourism—the main economic driver for the region—there have been modest signs of improvement. Year-over-year declines in monthly visitor totals have begun to narrow, and consumer spending is up compared to last year in sectors such as dining, retail, and home goods.
Las Vegas added 4,400 jobs between August and September, a 0.4 percent increase, based on seasonally adjusted state data. However, business confidence remains subdued. A recent survey by UNLV’s Center for Business and Economic Research found Southern Nevada business leaders’ confidence at its lowest point since the Great Recession, reflecting ongoing uncertainty and weak tourism numbers.
Looking ahead, the center predicts a “slowing path” for Nevada’s economic recovery.