ST. PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota employers added 5,900 jobs in August, marking a strong employment growth that surpassed the nearly flat national level, according to the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).

The state's job growth resulted in a 0.2% increase, while the U.S. saw little change. Minnesota's labor force grew by nearly 1,100 workers, and the unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.6%, still below the national rate of 4.3%.

Over the past year, Minnesota gained 39,255 jobs, a 1.3% increase, outpacing the national growth of 0.8%. The private sector saw a 1.4% rise, adding 37,692 jobs.

"Minnesota’s labor market had a strong month in August, adding thousands of jobs and people looking for work," said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. He noted that Minnesota outpaced

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