Unemployment in Ellis County was flat in May compared to April, holding at 3.3 percent.

Statewide, the jobless rate rose to 4.4 percent in May from 4.3 percent in April, according to monthly statistics released this week by the Kansas Department of Labor.

Northwest Kansas rates were mostly below 4 percent, although Decatur, Graham, Rooks and Smith counties posted jobless rates above 4 percent.

“Preliminary estimates show Kansas lost 3,800 jobs from April to May. Changing seasonal factors led to a decline in student workers at the State universities,” said Tyler Tenbrink, Senior Labor Economist. “Also, construction activity slowed in May, likely due to above average rainfall during the month. Administrative and support services as well as food services also contributed to the decline over the month.”

The June Labor Report will be released July 17.

Click the map above for a county-by-county breakdown of rates.