Unemployment rates in Ellis County rose slightly, but still remain below 3 percent, according to the most recent figures from the Kansas Department of Labor, which were released Thursday.

The February 2014 report showed a jobless rate of just 2.8 percent in Ellis County, up from 2.6 percent in January. The unemployment rate in February 2013 was 3.2 percent, the Labor Department reported.

Statewide, the seasonally adjusted jobless rate ticked up slightly, from 4.8 percent in January to 4.9 percent in February. A year ago, the statewide rate was 5.6 percent.

“Another month of progress in the number of individuals employed coupled with a substantial decrease in unemployment claims is an encouraging sign of growth in the labor market,” said Lana Gordon, Secretary of Labor. “The state’s unemployment rate remains below 5 percent for the third straight month, the first time Kansas has seen this in over five years.”

Neighboring counties also have jobless rates well below the state average, with several dropping below the 3 percent mark.

Click on the map at right for a closer look.

The March labor report is scheduled to be released April 17.

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