Underemployment

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Regional Unemployment and Underemployment Rates
2008 2009 2010
Area Unem-
ployment		 Underem-ployment Unem-
ployment		 Underem-ployment Unem-
ployment		 Underem-ployment
State 4.9% 12.3% 8.0% 12.7% 9.3% 14.2%
Northern 6.2% 11.2% 9.9% 11.3% 11.8% 14.7%
North Central 5.0% 10.8% 7.2% 13.3% 8.7% 14.0%
Southwestern 5.3% 13.6% 8.9% 13.4% 9.8% 11.7%
South Central 3.9% 12.8% 6.6% 12.8% 8.4% 20.8%
Southeastern 4.1% 12.3% 6.4% 8.8% 7.9% 14.1%
Eastern 3.6% 9.4% 6.3% 14.1% 7.4% 18.3%

Underemployment by County 2003 - 2010
Excel | PDF


Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the underemployed?

The definition for underemployment is complex and can vary across disciplines. In general those already working with skill and educational levels that do not match their current occupations or their fringe or salary compensation can be considered underemployed. Also if workers' current jobs do not match their desire to work full time, they can be considered underemployed. The underemployed represent a pool of labor in addition to the unemployed that economic developers and existing businesses can tap.

Why measure underemployment?

Idaho’s unemployment rates are higher than at anytime since 1983, according to the Idaho Department of Labor’s report "Measuring Underemployment in Idaho," unemployment only tells part of the story. The report's underlying theme is that there are many workers in the state who need or want better jobs. The underemployed part of the work force can also provide an additional source of labor for new and expanding businesses.
         
Data


2010 Statewide Rate: 14.2%

Underemployment by County 2003 - 2010
Excel | PDF
         
 
What people are saying about the study
 
"The information contained in the study of underemployment is a breakthrough in how we think about employment and is certainly important to all of us who work in work force areas and could prove to be extremely valuable to those in education and training! If we can match the underemployed with job opportunities that match their skill levels, it should mean increased productivity for companies and increased incomes for individuals."
Con P. Paulos, President, Con Paulos Inc.