Indiana’s unemployment rate in October stands at 3.6%, according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. By comparison, the national unemployment rate for October stands at 3.9%.

The unemployment rate in both Elkhart and St. Joseph County is down a tick. In Elkhart, it’s 3.5% which is down three-tenths of a point from September. In St. Joseph County, it’s 3.7%, down two-tenths of a point from the month before.

In addition, Indiana’s labor force participation rate stands at 63.3% for October, remaining above the national rate of 62.7%. This rate is the percentage of Hoosiers 16 and older who are either working or actively looking for work. Those not in the labor force include, primarily, students, retirees, and other non-working populations, such as individuals unable to work due to a disability or illness, or adults responsible for their family’s childcare needs.

Indiana’s total labor force stands at 3,421,751 – a decrease of 4,455 from the previous month.

“Indiana’s labor market continues to show strength for both workers and employers,” said DWD Commissioner Richard Paulk. “Though the state set a private employment record, employers still need to fill many more critical jobs. Economic trends are favorable and we encourage Hoosiers considering re-entering the workforce to take advantage of this worker-friendly economic climate.”

Private sector employment in Indiana increased by 3,400 jobs over the last month, resulting in a gain of 47,100 jobs from this time last year. Indiana’s October private employment stands at 2,858,300, which is a new private employment peak. Industries that experienced job increases in October included:

Construction (+2,500);

Private Educational and Health Services (+2,400);

Leisure and Hospitality (+1,900);

Financial Activities (+1,600); and

Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+400).

As of Nov. 16, 2023, there were 105,860 open job postings throughout the state. In October, 14,801 unemployment insurance claims were filed in Indiana.