Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Berkshire County Unemployment Hits Four-Year High at 4%

1/3/2026

41 3

Summary

Story summary

Berkshire County's unemployment rate rose to 4 percent in September, the highest in four years.
Local employers face skill shortages and changing worker expectations, despite some layoffs.
Nationally, unemployment stands at 4.6 percent.
Youth unemployment reached 10.6 percent in November.
The MassHire Career Center is developing programs to address skill gaps and adapt to AI-driven hiring processes.

1 of 1

Story summary

Berkshire County's unemployment rate rose to 4 percent in September, the highest in four years.
Local employers face skill shortages and changing worker expectations, despite some layoffs.
Nationally, unemployment stands at 4.6 percent.
Youth unemployment reached 10.6 percent in November.
The MassHire Career Center is developing programs to address skill gaps and adapt to AI-driven hiring processes.