Silver State Times

Jobs were up in Nevada in December, and the unemployment rate was down, the state said.

“I am pleased to see December’s employment numbers," Gov. Steve Sisolak said in a release from his office. "The large increase in employment over the year reflects Nevada’s ongoing recovery from the COVID recession and the growth in varied industries throughout the state is encouraging. With Nevada continuing to add jobs, and unemployment leveling off, we must remain vigilant as the state continues its recovery from the pandemic and the potential impacts to the economy and labor force.” 

The Las Vegas metro area showed the largest employment gains, increasing by 6,100 or 0.6%, according to the state. Reno added 1,100 jobs or .4 percent. Jobs were flat in Carson City in December but are still 1,400 above the number in December 2020, the release said.

"This report shows a continued rebound in employment growth in Nevada with the state adding 3,700 jobs in December," David Schmidt, the state's chief economist, said.

In leisure and hospitality alone, the Las Vegas metro area added 1,000 job from November to December, he said.

Nevada's unemployment rate dropped from 6.9% in November to 6.4% in December, according to the release.

"The state’s labor market is continuing its recovery as we emerge from the COVID recession, particularly in the industries that were hit  hardest by the pandemic," Schmidt said.