A complete description of the Methods for Labor Force Estimates is also available. Monthly job estimates for areas below the state level are not adjusted for seasonal changes in employment. Typically, during the holiday shopping season, retail jobs increase, and there are more workers in the construction industry during the summer. On the other hand, changes may reflect new businesses, expansions, closings, etc. Comparison of monthly changes for the same period in prior years will provide a better understanding whether the change is seasonal or atypical.
Data adjusted for seasonal changes are only available for California at the major industry level.
Monthly fluctuations in the wage and salary employment data are an essential part of the changes that occur in a dynamic economy of the county or region. It is important to study the data over time to evaluate the strength of the local economy. Wage and salary employment data identify which industries have the largest number of jobs. Annual average data, over time, tend to be a better indicator of employment trends for the various industries in an area. How to Use this Data Economic developers, firms considering relocation, government agencies, grant writers, universities and anyone preparing reports on employment, use wage and salary employment information to identify local industry trends.