The Ann Arbor area's unemployment rate fell to 8.9 percent in February, a fall from 9.3 percent in January, according to data released this afternoon by the state.
According to the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth, "Washtenaw County's rate was the lowest statewide in February."
Employment in February totaled about 165,900 positions in the Ann Arbor area, with a labor force of about 182,100. About 900 people entered the labor force in February over the previous month, with a net gain of about 1,600 jobs added.
Changes in February are attributed to seasonal job increases in local and state government education, according to the state. Manufacturing and retail lost a combined 900 jobs, according to the report. Private educational and health services added 300 jobs.
The Michigan unemployment rate in February fell to 14.1 percent from 14.3 percent in January.
University of Michigan economist George Fulton forecasts that Washtenaw County's unemployment rate will average 8.9 percent by the end of 2010, reflecting both annual job growth and more people entering the labor force.
Other areas in Michigan with their February unemployment rate include: Livingston, 13.3 percent; Lenawee, 16.9 percent; Lansing, 11.2 percent.
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