Most West Virginia counties report rising unemployment rate

CHARLESTON -- West Virginia’s unemployment rate climbed six-tenths of a percentage point to 7.7 percent in December 2011, and nearly all counties in the state recorded rising unemployment rates as well, according to data released by WorkForce West Virginia. 

The number of counties recording an unemployment rate considered much worse than average when compared to the state rate rose slightly. This group included Roane (11.8), Webster (12.6), Grant (12.6), and Calhoun (12.7). 

The number of counties reporting an unemployment rate considered better than average when compared to the state rate declined in December. This group included Ohio (6.5), Putnam (6.4), Gilmer (6.3), and Jefferson (5.9). Once again, Monongalia (5.0) was the sole county recording an unemployment rate considered much better than average when compared to the state rate.