Missouri job growth among the best in the U.S.

Missouri job growth among the best in the U.S.

In 2016, the Show Me State gained 57,100 jobs — a figure that topped all 8 of Missouri’s neighboring states.

In addition to job growth, Missouri’s unemployment rate decreased .4 percent during the past month, according to a recent report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics. The state ranked among the top in the nation with the largest unemployment decrease.

“This report showing Missouri leading the region in job growth is more proof that hard work pays off,” said Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon in a release. “By balancing budgets and making smart investments in our students and workers, we’ve positioned Missouri to compete and win in the global economy.”

Nixon also gave a nod to Missouri entrepreneurs. He attributes the state’s growth to the revitalized manufacturing industry and to its international recognition as a technology hub.

The Sunflower state did not fare as well. Over the last year, Kansas lost 4,500 private-sector jobs. Although the Kansas unemployment rate went down .1 percent from October to November, it has gone up .3 percent since last year.