In a statistical comparison from the end of 2012, compared with the end of the previous year 2011, figures provided by the state indicate Grundy County has 220 fewer people working while there are 280 fewer jobs in the civilian labor force.

With those lower numbers, Grundy County's unemployment rate as of December is five point nine percent. That's down from one year ago when it was six point seven percent.

The most recent rate is based on 282 persons claiming unemployment out of a civilian labor force of 47-hundred 62. The rate of five point nine percent for December compares to six point one percent in November.

Statewide, the unemployment rate is six point seven percent for December.

Most north Missouri counties are below that. Just three counties have rates above the state average: Linn is eight percent; Carroll is seven point three; and Clinton county is seven point two.

Counties with unemployment rates ranging from seven down to six percent are Caldwell, Harrison, Livingston, Daviess, and DeKalb. Counties having jobless rates ranging from six down to five percent are Grundy, Chariton, Putnam, and Sullivan. Area counties under five percent are Adair, Gentry, Worth, and Mercer.

December unemployment rates across the state range from a low of four percent for Boone county (including Columbia) to a high of 12 and a half percent in Hickory County which is in west- central Missouri.