March 24. Unemployment rates increased in 99 counties in January 2025 and remained unchanged in one. Hyde County had the highest unemployment rate at 8.3 percent while Camden County had the lowest at 3.0 percent. All fifteen of the state’s metro areas experienced rate increases. Among the metro areas, Asheville had the highest rate at 6.0 percent while Raleigh had the lowest at 3.2 percent. The not seasonally adjusted statewide rate was 4.0 percent—same as Mecklenburg County.

When compared to the same month last year, not seasonally adjusted unemployment rates increased in 69 counties, decreased in 18, and remained unchanged in 13. Nine metro areas experienced rate increases over the year, two decreased, and four remained unchanged.

The number of workers employed statewide (not seasonally adjusted) increased in January by 10,772 to 5,077,982, while those unemployed increased by 31,684 to 209,884. Since January 2024, the number of workers employed statewide increased 25,816, while those unemployed increased 14,733.

Employment estimates are subject to large seasonal patterns. Comparisons are best made year over year.