Bladen County’s unemployment rate increased to 5.1% in July, according to the latest data from the N.C. Department of Commerce. This rise mirrors a statewide trend, with unemployment rates going up in 83 of North Carolina’s 100 counties. Southeastern counties like Brunswick, Columbus, and Cumberland also saw rates fluctuate between 4.5% and 5.8%.

Statewide, the unemployment rate for July was 4.3%, with Scotland County holding the highest at 7.8%, while Dare County had the lowest at 3.2%. As North Carolina continues to navigate post-pandemic economic challenges, local employment remains a key issue to monitor as the year progresses.