Kentucky Celebrates Lowest Annual Unemployment Rate in State History

Despite the record low, Kentucky still had an unemployment rate higher than 33 states.

(Frankfort, Ky.) – Kentucky is boasting its lowest annual unemployment rate in state history.

Governor Andy Beshear announced this week that the jobless rate for 2022 finished at 3.9 percent, down from 4.4 percent in 2021.  

That is the lowest rate Kentucky has had since the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics began reporting state unemployment rates in 1976.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the number of employed Kentuckians for 2022 was 1,968,121. That’s an increase of over 30,000 individuals from 2021.

The number of unemployed Kentuckians for 2022 was 79,945, down 9,683 from the previous year.

“With the lowest unemployment rate in our state’s history, we know more Kentuckians are chasing their dreams and providing for their families right here at home,” said Beshear.

Nationally, all 50 states experienced a decrease in their annual unemployment rates from 2021 to 2022. Kentucky’s rate was higher than 33 states, including Indiana, Missouri, Tennessee and Virginia, and lower than 13 states such as Illinois and Ohio.

The U.S. annual unemployment rate stands at 3.6 percent for 2022. That’s down from 5.3 percent in 2021.

For more information, visit https://www.bls.gov/.

More from Local News

Events

  • Grief Share

    No matter the circumstances, grief is painful and confusing. GriefShare offers a safe, welcoming group where others understand your loss the emotions of grief.

    at The Cove
  • Dolly's Summer Tour

    Our Dolly Parton stand-up is making her rounds to participating local businesses all summer long! Send in your selfie with Dolly for a chance to win!

  • MILAN VFW BINGO

    Bingo every Tuesday

    at Milan Vfw Post6234

Franklin Co. Sheriff's Dept. Investigating Vehicle Thefts

The thefts occurred in the southeastern portion of the county

PG Gentrup Delivers Game Ball at FC Cincinnati Match

Gentrup was at the match representing Operation Ramp It Up

Milan Native Wins Indian Trails 5K

The 2026 Southeastern Indiana Racing Circuit is down to one race

Local Students Participate at IHSAA Leadership Conference

The annual event is held at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Bicycle, Scooter Giveaway Returns for 2nd Annual Zack Bolton Memorial

The event happens August 15 at Lawrenceburg Speedway

On Air

Eagle Country 99.3 playing
George Strait - I Saw God Today

Lee Brice Boy 10:06
Tracy Byrd Drinkin' Bone 10:03
Fox News Fox News National Newscast 10:02
Luke Combs When It Rains, It Pours 9:58