Unemployment dropped significantly across Southwest Florida in March, with Lee County’s rate at its lowest point in almost five years at 6.8 percent.
That’s down from 7.4 percent in February and from 9 percent a year ago. Collier’s rate dropped to 6.3 percent, down from 6.9 percent in February and 8.9 percent a year ago. Charlotte County fell to 6.8 percent, down from 7.4 percent the previous month and 8.9 percent a year ago.
Statewide, Florida’s rate was 7.5 percent, down from 7.8 percent in February and 8.9 percent in February 2012.