Alabama’s unemployment rate dropped to 2.9% in August, but the state’s workforce participation rate dropped slightly, too.

Average weekly wages rose to $1,117.54, its second highest level ever, the Alabama Department of Workforce said Friday. That figure represents a yearly increase of $72.63 per week.

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

The unemployment rate measures those seeking work. The new unemployment rate represents 68,191 unemployed people searching for work, compared to 72,473 in July and 74,115 in August 2024, ac

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