Albert Lea Unemployment Lowest Since Oct. 2008 | Business

The unemployment rate in Albert Lea is at the lowest level it has been since October 2008, according to the latest numbers from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

The rate for December 2011 is at 7 percent.  The unemployment rate was 6.3 percent in October 2008.  One year ago it was at 8.6 percent.

According to DEED, 617 people were looking for work in Albert Lea in December.  The labor stood at more than 8,800 people.

Unemployment rates of surrounding communities in December 2011:

• Austin:  5.3%
• Owatonna:  6%
• Rochester:  4.5%
• Fairmont:  5.4%