Salem’s unemployment rate has followed state and nation trends. But the numbers tell a deeper story

Employment in the Salem Metropolitan Statistical Area has stayed close to trends in Oregon and the U.S. (Pam Ferrara)

Salem’s unemployment rate declined in September to 7.8%, closely tracking Oregon and U.S. unemployment rates (see graph).

These rates track closely because the mix of industries locally is similar to that on the state and national level. States still experiencing double-digit unemployment rates have an unusual industry mix. For example, Hawaii, where tourism is king, and…