ADOL report finds average weekly wages increased in August

The latest report from the Alabama Department of Labor (ADOL) found that the average weekly wages increased in August to $1,117.54, considered to be its second highest level "ever". 

The manufacturing sector and the leisure and hospitality sector also saw record high wages during the month, with the manufacturing sector having an increase of $84.36 per week, and the leisure and hospitality sector having an increase of $45.74 per week.

“Wage growth is always something to celebrate and is a positive indicator of economic activity,” said Alabama Secretary of Workforce Greg Reed. “I’m optimistic that these wages will continue to increase. Increased wages help drive positive growth statewide, for both employers and employees.”

The preliminary, seasonally adjusted July unemployment rate was reported at 2.9%, which is down from July, representing 68,191 unemployed persons, compared to 72,473 in July and 74,115 in August of 2024.

The number of people counted as employed reportedly increased by 30,242 over the year to 2,310,036 while the civilian labor force increased to 2,378,227, with 24,318 more people joining over the year.

Wage and salary employment increased over the year by 15,400 to 2,205,700, with gains seen in the private education and health services sector at more than 5,900, the manufacturing sector at more than 2,900, and the government sector at more than 4,000.

Counties with the highest unemployment rates are Perry County at 5.9%, Greene County at 5.7%, and Wilcox County at 5.6%.

Selma remains among the highest at 4.8%, unchanged from August.