Not surprised. California unemployment rises to 5.5%, worst in the U.S., as tech falters.
So is anyone surprised? In July, the highest among U.S. states, as tech and other office jobs showed more weakness and hiring remained sluggish, according to state data released Friday. California’s rate was higher than the national unemployment rate of 4.2% in July.
California’s trade, transportation and utilities sector saw a net gain of 1,300 jobs statewide in July compared with June, while manufacturing was up by 300 jobs, though it’s lost 32,500 jobs since July 2024.
In contrast, professional and business services were down 7,100 jobs in July, the worst of any sector, and the tech-heavy information sector lost 1,000 jobs.
