Unemployment rates fell in April in all Southwest Michigan labor markets by a full percentage point on average.
In April, seasonal job gains were recorded in leisure and hospitality (including hotels, restaurants and recreational activities), professional and business services, retail trade, and construction.
In Branch County, the April unemployment rate was 7.6 percent, down from 8.6 in March and 9.4 in April 2011.
The numbers for Cass County show a jobless rate of 6.3 percent in April compared to 7.6 in March and 9.4 in April 2011.
In St. Joseph County, the unemployment rate in April was 7.7 percent, down from 8.8 in March and 9.7 in April 2011.
For a detailed analysis of the April 2012 labor market analysis for Southwest Michigan from the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget, click here.
