Unemployment rates increased in many Michigan labor markets during December, with the Niles Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) experiencing a slight uptick in joblessness as the statewide labor picture showed signs of softening, according to data released by the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget.
Across Michigan’s labor market areas, not seasonally adjusted unemployment rates ranged from 4.0% to 7.6% in December, with most regions posting higher jobless rates compared with November. The changes reflect broader employment declines and a contraction in payroll jobs during the month, state officials said.
“Most Michigan regional labor markets exhibited prominent employment decreases both over the month and over the year. Unemployment rates advanced in most areas in December but were down from the previous year” said Wayne Rourke, labor market information director for the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics. “Payroll jobs also receded over the month.”
In the Niles MSA, which covers Berrien County, the unemployment rate edged up to 4.8% in December from 4.7% in November, marking a 0.1 percentage point increase month-over-month. Although modest, the rise comes amid broader regional shifts, including a shrinking labor force and fewer employed residents compared with earlier in 2025. Over the year, the Niles jobless rate remained below levels seen in December 2024, when it was 5.6%, indicating some improvement despite recent monthly gains.
Statewide, total employment receded in most regions, and nonfarm payrolls declined by about 18,000 jobs in December. Sectors such as construction and professional and business services accounted for the largest cuts. While 12 metro areas still showed payroll job increases over the year, most metro areas experienced month-to-month declines.
The unemployment trends illustrate ongoing challenges within Michigan’s labor market as winter seasonality and broader economic shifts affect workforce participation and job availability across the state’s regional economies.
You can view the state’s full report by clicking here.
