Michigan’s Job Growth and Decreasing Unemployment

Governor Whitmer on Michigan’s Job Growth and Decreasing Unemployment

Governor celebrates decrease in unemployment rate to lowest level since March 2020, makes case for further investments in job creation, small businesses

LANSING, Mich.—Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following statement after the release of Michigan’s latest jobs and unemployment numbers. The state’s unemployment rate in July was down to 4.8%, well below the national average of 5.4%. Michigan added 31,000 non-farm jobs in July, with the largest increase coming from the leisure and hospitality sector.

“Michigan’s job numbers are headed in the right direction. Our unemployment rate is below the national average and businesses are staffing up fast. Despite our seven months of decreasing unemployment, however, we still have a lot of work left to do to help every family, community, and small business participate in our economic jumpstart. Right now, we have an unprecedented opportunity to use the massive influx of federal funds we have received to make tangible, lasting investments in the kitchen-table issues that impact Michigan families and small businesses most—childcare, skills training, job creation, housing, and more. I will continue putting Michiganders first and will work with anyone to get this done for everyone. Together, we can power our economy to new highs and usher in a new era of prosperity for our state.”

Throughout the pandemic, the state of Michigan unveiled dozens of economic relief programs for businesses that supported more than 25,000 companies and retained more than 200,000 jobs. Michigan’s economy grew 7.6% in the first quarter of 2021, the best in the Midwest, and an independent analysis from the financial publication Credible states that Michigan’s economic recovery is the 2nd strongest nationwide. The state also went from a projected $3 billion deficit to a $3.5 billion surplus and continues to lead in automotive manufacturing as it remains a top state for business growth.