FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet released preliminary June labor market information on June 25, providing updated employment data through May 2026 and revised April figures.

The Kentucky Center for Statistics (KYSTATS), an agency within the cabinet, reported that unemployment rates rose in 95 counties between May 2025 and May 2026, fell in 17 counties and stayed the same in eight counties. The data reflects a mixed employment picture across the state's regions.

Woodford County recorded the lowest unemployment rate in the state at 3.7%, according to May's data report, followed by Fayette, Scott, and Todd counties, which were all at 4% each. The Lexington area continues to show relatively strong employment compared to statewide averages.

In contrast, Martin County recorded the state's highest unemployment rate at 9.8%, followed by Wolfe County at 8.5%, Lewis County at 8.1%, Magoffin County at 7.9%, and Elliott County at 7.8%. Economic disparities remain significant across Kentucky's counties.

KYSTATS publishes the most recent estimates of the state's unemployment rate, labor force, and industry employment, providing critical data for policymakers and businesses. County unemployment rates and employment levels are not seasonally adjusted because of small sample sizes, while statewide figures use seasonal adjustments to reveal underlying economic trends.