OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Unemployment in the CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion region rose slightly in April to 4.5%, up just 0.1% from March but still higher than the 3.8% rate reported one year ago.

According to FloridaCommerce, April’s regional labor force totaled 233,239 people — 380 more than March and 1,910 more than last year. Of those, 222,824 were employed, with 10,415 unemployed.

“April data shows expanding labor force and employment with employment lagging labor force growth,” said Rusty Skinner, CareerSource CLM CEO. “This lagging employment has driven a slightly higher unemployment rate.”

Despite the uptick, Skinner noted the market remains strong.

“Job seekers, as well as employers seeking new hires, should be encouraged by the fact that businesses show a continued demand for workers.”

Local job fairs and access points

  • Nearly 500 youth attended the Marion County Youth Job Fair on April 29
  • A Citrus County Job Fair is scheduled for June 10, 3–5 p.m. at CF’s Wilton Simpson Campus
  • Career help is available at local career centers and through Employ Florida

County-specific unemployment rates:

  • Levy County: 4.0% (lowest in the region)
  • Marion County: 4.3% (unchanged)
  • Citrus County: 5.1% (third highest in the state)

Ocala metro job trends

  • Government sector led the state in growth at 5%, adding 800 jobs
  • Education & Health Services grew 2.9% (+600 jobs)
  • Construction added 100 jobs
  • Manufacturing and Information each lost 100 jobs

The next employment update is expected Friday, June 20. For full April job details, visit FloridaCommerce’s employment portal.

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