Unemployment rates show an increase in the month of June, but the year’s overall rates of employment are promising.

The North Carolina Department of Commerce released a report on July 27 indicating that unemployment rates rose in 84 of North Carolina’s 100 counties in June, fell in 11 and were unchanged in five. When compared to the same month last year, unemployment rates declined in 91 counties, increased in six, and remained the same in three.

“Over-the-year numbers are showing a positive trend compared to the June numbers,” said N.C. Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Dale Carroll. “Since June of last year, rates are down in nearly all of North Carolina’s 100 counties. Job announcements continue to be made across our state and we remain focused on getting people back to work.

Working with employers statewide and providing assistance in our employment service offices is critical to finding opportunities for our customers.” North Carolina had 39 counties that were at or below the state’s not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 9.9 percent. Unemployment rates increased in all 14 Metropolitan Statistical Areas.

The number of workers employed (not seasonally adjusted) increased in June by 12,294 to 4,237,552, while those unemployed rose 22,088 to 463,123. Since June 2011, the number of workers unemployed decreased 45,492, while those employed increased 69,075.

Reach Darcie Dyer at 835-1513 or ddyer@heartlandpublications.com.