California Unemployment Rises to 5.3% as Job Growth Slows

Statewide hiring weakened in August with significant losses in government payrolls and key industries.

California's unemployment rate increased from 5.2% in July to 5.3% in August, trailing only Nevada's 5.5%.
The state added just 6,800 jobs in August, well below its monthly average of 17,750 for 2024.
Government employment in California saw a significant drop, with state payrolls declining by 17,100 jobs due to a hiring freeze.
Southern California's four-county unemployment rate rose to 6.1%, with notable monthly job gains in education but losses in manufacturing and professional services.
San Diego County's unemployment rate climbed to 5%, with modest gains in private education and health services but losses in trade, transportation, and utilities.