The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development released non-seasonally adjusted local employment estimates for September, showing widespread declines in unemployment rates across all of Wisconsin’s metropolitan statistical areas, major cities, and counties.
According to figures derived from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates, preliminary unemployment rates fell in all 13 of the state’s metropolitan areas during September. Over-the-year comparison, however, showed increased unemployment rates across all 13 metro regions.
In municipal areas, unemployment rates dropped over the month in all 35 of Wisconsin’s largest cities. Sheboygan stood out as the sole municipality to experience a decrease in its unemployment rate over the year, while 29 cities recorded higher rates and five remained unchanged compared to September 2025.
At the county level, every one of Wisconsin’s 72 counties registered a lower unemployment rate in September relative to August. Over the past 12 months, four counties achieved lower unemployment rates, 61 counties saw rate increases, and seven counties held steady.