July’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate is estimated at 3.3%. Approximately 60,517 Utahns are unemployed. Utah’s June unemployment rate is unrevised at 3.2%. The July national unemployment rate is up a tenth of a percentage point at 4.2%.

“Robust job growth continues to fuel economic momentum, even as we see early signs of moderation in hiring trends” said Ben Crabb, chief economist with the Utah Department of Workforce Services. “While the unemployment rate has edged up slightly, it remains near historic lows, underscoring the resilience of our labor market.”

Utah’s July private sector employment recorded a year-over-year expansion of 2.1%, or a 31,100 job increase. Seven of the 10 major private-sector industry groups posted net year-over-year job gains. The overall gains are led by education and health services (19,600 jobs), construction (4,900 jobs) and leisure and hospitality (4,800 jobs). Trade, transportation and utilities (-2,200 jobs), and other services (-800 jobs) experienced year-over-year job losses.

— Utah Department of Workforce Services

First human cases of West Nile Virus in Cache County

The Bear River Health Department has identified two cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) in humans within the Bear River Health District. Both individuals reside in Cache County. To maintain their privacy, no further personal information will be disclosed.

WNV is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on birds that carry the virus. The virus can cause illness ranging from mild, flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, to severe neurological problems in rare cases.

In the past month, mosquito abatement districts in Box Elder and Cache Counties have reported multiple WNV-positive mosquito traps. Additional positive traps are expected in the coming days and weeks. Since mosquitoes can travel several miles, everyone in the region should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and reduce the risk of WNV exposure.

— Bear River Health Department

Labor Day Travel Costs: AAA Data Shows What’s Cheaper, More Expensive

As a record-breaking summer travel season comes to an end, many across the county are preparing to close it out with one last big trip for Labor Day weekend. The good news for domestic travelers is this final getaway will be more budget-friendly, with flights, hotels, and car rentals being more affordable than previous years.

“Millions of travelers are taking advantage of cheaper prices on lodging and transportation this Labor Day weekend,” said John Treanor, spokesperson for AAA Mountain West Group. “Travelers can mitigate costs and maximize the value of their trips even more with the help of a travel advisor and by taking advantage of the many discounts that come with a AAA Membership.”

Gas prices this summer have averaged its lowest prices since 2021. The national average for a gallon of regular last Labor Day was $3.33. Barring severe weather affecting Gulf Coast refineries, gas prices should stay below what they were last year.

Saturday, August 30 is expected to be the busiest travel day for drivers. Afternoon and early evening will be the worst times to hit the road over the holiday weekend.

International travel costs this year are a mixed bag – while hotels are 2% cheaper, airfare is 8% more expensive. European cities make up most of AAA’s top international destinations, but the number one spot belongs to Vancouver. Alaska cruises are wrapping up a strong season, as AAA projected at the beginning of the year with the 2025 Cruise Forecast.

— AAA Mountain West Group