What this tracks
This dataset measures unemployment rates, workforce numbers, and employment statistics across counties and regions in Missouri.
Why it matters to you
If you’re job hunting in Missouri, this data shows which counties have tighter labor markets (lower unemployment rates) versus areas with more available workers. A small business owner expanding to a new location could compare unemployment rates to gauge how hard it might be to hire staff in different regions. The monthly updates help spot seasonal hiring patterns in tourism or agriculture-heavy areas.
How to read this data
area_name — The county or region measured, like “ADAIR COUNTY” in the sample.
unemployment_rate — The percentage of people actively seeking work (6.7% in the sample for Adair County).
laborforce — Total people working or looking for work (12,054 in the sample).
period — The month measured (3 = March in the sample).
Try it yourself
Check your county’s current unemployment rate before applying for jobs to see how competitive the market is, or compare rates if you’re considering opening a business in multiple Missouri regions.