According to a recent report by the California Employment Development Department, San Diego County remains the sixth-ranked region in the state when it comes to matters of employment, despite a 0.3% increase in its overall unemployment level last month. The preliminary research that was released last week shows that only San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Marin, Orange and Napa counties experienced lower levels of unemployment than San Diego for the month of June, with Nevada County tying for sixth place. It is the second month in a row that San Diego has placed sixth out of the state's 58 counties. The region held onto its ranking despite an increase of unemployment from 4.2% in May to 4.5% in June. With last month's available labor force comprised of 1,491,100 people, San Diego County reported 1,424,700 residents employed and 66,400 unemployed.

San Diego County continues to enjoy low levels of unemployment, despite the steady growth in population that is occurring here and in all parts of Southern California. Many observers attribute the county's good fortune to its diverse economy, as the region is a hub for industries ranging from biotech to tourism.