Worcester lost fewer jobs in January 2007 than it did in January 2006, according to the state Department of Workforce Development.
The same was true for the Haverhill-North Andover-Amesbury MA-NH, Lowell-Billerica, and Springfield regions.
All 12 of Massachusetts’ metropolitan areas recorded seasonal job losses as a result of a decline in retail trade, leisure and hospitality and educational services, according to the state.
For the year, 10 of the 12 areas recorded job gains in January 2007, with Pittsfield posting the biggest gain, 3.6 percent, mostly in the trade, transportation and utilities, professional, scientific and business services and government.
The state’s unemployment rate stood at 6 percent in January, 0.6 percent above the January 2006 rate, and 1.1 percent above the 4.9 percent rate posted in December.
Without seasonal adjustments, the state’s unemployment rate increased to 5.3 percent in January. December’s unadjusted rate was 5.2 percent.
