New Jersey reports lowest jobless rate since 2007

New Jersey's jobless rate has fallen to its lowest level since 2007 and is now more than half a percentage point below the national average. But the latest unemployment report is still a mixed bag for those working and seeking jobs.

Preliminary data released Thursday from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed a continued decline in unemployment in New Jersey in February, from 4.5 percent to 4.3 percent. The national average is 4.9 percent.

More than 4.3 million New Jersey residents also reported they have a job, an all-time high.

However, nonfarm employment was down by 8,600 jobs over the month, all in the private sector. The biggest losses were suffered by the professional and business services and leisure and hospitality sectors. Residents reported an increase in employment by 12,300.

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