The state lost fewer than expected jobs for the month to land at 3.7 percent unemployment, compared with a 4.6 percent national rate.But the nonfarm rate of growth slowed to 2.8 percent for the year, compared with a rapid 5.3 percent growth rate at the same time a year ago.
How does job growth compare with the rest of the nation?
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The national average growth rate as of June was 1.1 percent. Arizona is No. 2 behind Utah, and followed by Wyoming, South Dakota and Louisiana.
Where did Arizona's major industries increase?
Transportation and utilities added 1,800 workers during the month, followed by construction's 900 new workers. Natural resources and mining picked up 300 employees, and information companies put 100 more people on their payrolls.
Any surprises there?
The construction industry reversed a four-month down trend amid the housing-industry havoc. "The picture here in Arizona is a heck of a lot better than other states," said Don Wehbey, the department's senior economist.
Losses?
Leisure and hospitality services cut 6,300 jobs, representing the third month of seasonal declines. Professional and business services declined by 500, and government was down 13,100, mostly because of educators out of work for the summer.
