For the first time in 13 months, Maryland lost 6,400 jobs in June. The state’s unemployment rate ticked up to 6.2 percent, according to preliminary data from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Nationally, nonfarm payrolls increased 850,000 for the month, which beat expectations. The national unemployment rate, however, rose to 5.9%.

“Today’s jobs report is further evidence of the ongoing challenges our state’s economy is facing due to a serious labor shortage,” said Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Tiffany P. Robinson. “Businesses across the state are hiring and jobs are available. In fact, there are over 250,000 jobs available on the Maryland Workforce Exchange alone, which is the most job postings of any month in the past 5 years. I strongly encourage job seekers to visit MWE or connect with their local American Job Center to explore the countless job opportunities available.”

According to a Maryland Department of Labor press release:

The Education and Health Services sector experienced the most growth with an increase of 3,500 jobs from the Educational Services (2,800) and Health Care and Social Assistance (700) subsectors. The Leisure and Hospitality sector increased by 1,400 jobs from the Accommodation and Food Services
(1,300) and Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation (100) subsectors.

Other sectors that experienced growth include: Information (600); Other Services (600); and Financial Activities (500).

Sectors that experienced decline last month include: Professional and Business Services (9,700); Mining, Logging, and Construction (1,800); Manufacturing (1,100); and Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (500).

As the focus shifts to restoring our state and local economies in a safe, equitable, and prosperous manner for everyone, economic development and tourism agencies are working to implement innovative, adaptable, and sustainable approaches to confront the new realities facing Maryland businesses.