INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana’s unemployment rate decreased by two-tenths of a percent to 4.2 percent in November, which marks its lowest point since 2001. The unemployment rate is a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicator that reflects the number of unemployed people as a percentage of the labor force. Indiana’s total labor force stands at over 3.3 million and the state’s 64.7 percent labor force participation rate stands two percent above the national rate.

“Indiana’s unemployment rate continues to drop while private sector employment continues to grow, which are positive signs for Hoosier workers and jobseekers,” said Steven J. Braun, commissioner of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. “In order for Indiana to remain one of the most appealing states for business in the nation, it is critical that DWD engages and trains potential workers not actively participating in Indiana’s workforce in order to meet employers’ current and future demand for skilled workers.”

Commissioner Braun also noted that private sector employment increased 13,300 over the month and 36,500 over the year. He added that initial unemployment insurance claims remain at the lowest point in over 30 years.

Indiana experienced across the board growth in November, included in the following sectors: Professional & Business Services, 8,300; All Other, 1,700; Financial Activities, 1,500; Manufacturing, 1,400; Leisure & Hospitality, 1,000; Private Education & Health Services, 800; and Trade, Transportation & Utilities, 200. Construction, -1,600, was the only sector to experience losses in November.