Berks & Beyond Blog

It’s ironic that the last post I wrote about Harrisburg’s economic situation came the day after a 265-point stock market drop.  At that time, the Bureau of Labor Statistics Economic Indicators were not very encouraging.

So how are things today, exactly one year later?

To see how the Harrisburg-Carlisle Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) stacks up against Pennsylvania and the nation, download the “Harrisburg-Carlisle.pdf” file on this Selected BLS Economic Indicators page, last updated August 5, 2011.

The Harrisburg-Carlisle MSA’s unemployment rate was 7.4% as of June, 2011.  This is slightly lower than both the state of Pennsylvania and the nation as a whole – and is down .9% from this time last year.  However, total nonfarm employment is down .3% in the Harrisburg area from this time last year, while the state’s employment actually increased slightly (+.9%).  For comprehensive employment statistics, follow this link:

Bureau of Labor Statistics Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA: Nonfarm employment and labor force data

Taking all of these statistics into account, it’s easy to see that the Harrisburg market – like much of our nation – is still struggling to gain momentum after a lengthy recession.  We’ll have to wait and see how the raised debt ceiling, downgraded credit rating and subsequent stock market turmoil will affect the recovery.

Want to learn more?

Contact us and a Berks and Beyond staffing professional will show you how our services can help you make the most of our current economy – by saving you money, reducing your risks and keeping your workforce lean and flexible.

Did yesterday’s 265-point stock market drop leave you wondering what’s happened to our supposed economic recovery?  Unfortunately, this month’s Bureau of Labor Statistics Economic Indicators are not any more encouraging.

To see how the Harrisburg-Carlisle Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) stacks up against Pennsylvania and the nation, download the “Harrisburg-Carlisle.pdf” file on this Selected BLS Economic Indicators page, last updated July 20, 2010.

The Harrisburg-Carlisle MSA’s unemployment rate was 8.3% as of May, 2010 – slightly lower than both the state of Pennsylvania and the nation as a whole.  However, total nonfarm employment is down 1.1% in the Harrisburg area from this time last year, while the state’s employment increased slightly (+.5%).  For comprehensive employment statistics, follow this link:

Bureau of Labor Statistics Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA: Nonfarm employment and labor force data

Want to learn more?

Contact us and a Berks and Beyond staffing professional will show you how our services can help you make the most of our current economy – by saving you money, reducing your risks and keeping your workforce lean and flexible.

As you may know, Berks and Beyond recently opened our new Harrisburg office.  We’re pleased to report that, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Harrisburg – Carlisle Metropolitan Statistical area has weathered this recession better than many surrounding areas. 

To see how the Harrisburg area stacks up against the state and the nation, download the “Harrisburg-Carlisle,Pa.pdf” file on this Selected BLS Economic Indicators page, last updated January 25, 2010.

The Harrisburg – Carlisle MSA’s unemployment rate was 7.6% as of December, 2009 (tied for 94th place in the nation).  Overall, Harrisburg lost fewer jobs last year as compared to both the state of Pennsylvania and the nation as a whole.  For comprehensive employment statistics, follow this link:

Bureau of Labor Statistics Harrisburg – Carlisle PA: Nonfarm employment and labor force data 

Want to learn more?

Contact us and a Berks and Beyond staffing professional will show you how our services can help you make the most of our current economy – by saving you money, reducing your risks and keeping your workforce lean and flexible.