Total nonfarm employment in the Spokane-Spokane Valley Metropolitan Statistical Area dropped by 1,400 jobs from July to August, preliminary data from the Washington state Employment Security Department shows.

For the 12 months ending in August, however, employers in the Spokane area added 200 jobs.

The dip in jobs parallels the state’s results, as nonfarm employment in Washington decreased by 13,600 jobs in August.

The unemployment rate rose to 4.4% in the Spokane-Spokane Valley MSA last month, up from 4.3% in July, but down from 4.8% in August 2024.

The statewide unemployment rate was 4.5% in August, and the national rate was 4.3%.