CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Charlottesville metropolitan area reported one of the lowest unemployment rates in Virginia for November 2024, according to data released by the Virginia Department of Workforce Development and Advancement. At 2.6%, Charlottesville tied with Winchester for the lowest rate among metropolitan statistical areas in the state. The statewide unemployment rate was 3.0%, just a 0.1 percentage point increase from November 2023.

Statewide, unemployment rates increased in 74 of Virginia’s 133 counties and cities, remained unchanged in 31, and decreased in 28 compared to the same period last year. Highland County recorded the lowest unemployment rate at 2.1%, while the city of Emporia had the highest at 8.2%. The department report noted that local rates are influenced by seasonal patterns and advised focusing on year-over-year changes for a clearer picture of trends.