The San Diego Monthly Employment Report (November 2015 to December 2015) shows decreases in the civilian unemployment rate, labor force and employment.
The California Employment Development Department (EDD) reported a 0.1 percent decrease in San Diego’s unemployment rate, from 4.8 percent in November to 4.7 percent in December. The 4.7 percent unemployment rate falls below the highest December unemployment rate (10.4 percent in 2010) but remains higher than the lowest December unemployment rate (3.7 percent in 2006) experienced in the region over the last 10 years.
The industry with the largest month-over employment gain was Trade, Transportation & Utilities (up 2,000 jobs), with 95 percent of the increase coming from the seasonal growth in retail trade (contributing 1,900 jobs). Five other industries also recorded employment gains, while four industries recorded month-over job losses. Leisure & Hospitality had the greatest decline in jobs (down 2,200 jobs), mainly from Accommodation & Food Services (down 1,600 jobs).
From December 2014 to December 2015, all industries experienced increased job growth, except for Other Services, which decreased by 2,500 jobs. Educational & Health Services had the greatest year-over gain, adding 10,200 jobs to the region with approximately 90 percent of the sector’s job growth coming from Health Care & Social Assistance (up 9,400 jobs). Professional & Business Services added 7,000 jobs.
The slight improvement in the unemployment rate is due to a combination of increased job opportunities (with non-farm jobs having a month-over increase of 200 jobs) and a decrease in the labor force participation rate. Additionally, year-over employment gains in all but one industry continue to be a positive indicator for San Diego County.