Metropolitan area employment and unemployment

Unemployment rates were lower in May than a year earlier in 298 of the 388 metropolitan areas, higher in 66 areas, and unchanged in 24 areas. Fifty-seven areas had jobless rates of less than 3.0 percent and two areas had rates of at least 10.0 percent. Nonfarm payroll employment increased over the year in 304 metropolitan areas, decreased in 77 areas, and was unchanged in 6 areas.

The national unemployment rate in May was 4.1 percent, not seasonally adjusted, down from 4.5 percent a year earlier.