Preliminary estimates from the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicate that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Kansas was 3.2% in July, up from 3.0% in June and 2.6% in July 2023.

Kansas’ seasonally adjusted job estimates show a decrease of 1,700 in total nonfarm payroll employment from June. This category includes both private sector and government jobs. Private sector employment increased by 3,900, while government jobs fell by 5,600.

Labor economist Emilie Doerksen explained that while private sector jobs grew in July, particularly in professional and business services and trade, transportation, and utilities, this growth was offset by a decline in government employment, leading to an overall decrease in total nonfarm jobs.

Compared to July 2023, Kansas has seen a rise of 21,100 in seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs, with a net increase of 22,800 private sector jobs and a decrease of 1,700 government jobs.