New data shows Kern County’s unemployment rate dropped in November to its lowest level since the pandemic first shook the local economy in March.

On Friday, the state Employment Development Department estimated last month’s seasonally unadjusted jobless rate at 9.4 percent, down from a revised 10.2 percent in October.

November’s reading was the lowest mark since February’s 9.1 percent. EDD data indicates local joblessness officially peaked at 18.7 percent in April.

Job gains were reported by retailers preparing for the holiday season and by transportation, warehousing and the hospitality industry.

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