Murfreesboro, TN -The latest numbers from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development bring encouraging news for Rutherford County: local unemployment held steady at a low 2.7% in May, making the county one of the top four in the state for lowest jobless rates. Rutherford tied with Sevier, Cheatham, and Wilson counties, just behind Williamson County, which posted the state’s lowest unemployment rate at 2.6%. While unemployment ticked upward in 92 of Tennessee’s 95 counties, Rutherford’s continued strong labor market positions it as a local and statewide economic leader.

Rutherford County Strong

“It’s a sign of a resilient and competitive workforce,” said a local economic development official. “Employers continue to find talent here in Rutherford County, and the numbers reflect that.”

Only Hardeman County reached the 5% mark—the state’s highest—while Johnson and Perry counties followed closely behind at 4.9% and 4.8%, respectively. The statewide average for May landed at 3.5%.

As the labor market continues to shift, state officials are also spotlighting programs aimed at enhancing employability for Tennesseans who are still searching for opportunities. Through the New Pathways program, adults across the state can earn their High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma through one of five testing options—the most offered by any state in the country. Free adult education classes are available to help residents prepare.

For Murfreesboro-area residents looking to upskill or reenter the workforce, state and local agencies encourage exploring available job training and educational resources.