Rochester Area Economy Continues to Lead State For Job Growth

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - For a second straight month, the Rochester area led the entire state for job growth in August.

The latest data released by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development shows the Rochester Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes portions of some neighboring counties, added more than 7100 jobs over the past 12 months for a job growth rate of 5.7%. By comparison, the entire Twin Cities area saw a net gain of only about 1800 jobs during the same time period.

Minnesota DEED

Minnesota's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose a tenth of a percentage point last month even though Minnesota employers added about 14,400 jobs in August. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development says it was the largest monthly jump in jobs since July 2022.

(Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

The Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics also revised the unemployment figures for Minnesota from last month. The previous report stated that Minnesota saw a net loss of about 1100 jobs, but that has now been changed to a net gain of about 2500 positions.

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Over the past 12 months, Minnesota's economy has added nearly 41,700 jobs for a job growth rate of 1.4%. A news release indicates the national job growth rate stands at about 1.5%.

26 Funny, Quirky, and Weird Minnesota Lake Names

With over 10,000 lakes, Minnesota is bound to have some lakes with odd names. With dozens of lakes with names like Mud Lake, Long Lake, Rice Lake, or Bass Lake, here are some less common and more interesting lake names in the state.

I'll admit, I am certain there are many funny or quirky lake names I missed, but here are some that I did find amusing.

Gallery Credit: Nick Cooper