The unemployment rate in San Diego County fell to 10.1 percent in February, down from 10.4 percent in January, according to labor statistics released Friday.
Non-farm employment increased by 4,700 jobs between January and February, increasing the total employment to 1.2 million jobs, according to the state Economic Development Department. Agricultural employment also saw a gain of 500 jobs over the month.
The scientific and technical services area saw the greatest increase, with 2,500 jobs added, according to the EDD. The leisure and hospitality industry added 1,700 jobs, while educational and health services added 1,200 jobs, and government added 900 jobs.
Job losses were seen in administrative, support and waste services; the trade, transportation and utilities industry; and manufacturing and construction.
However, five sectors reported job declines between February 2010 and last month, the biggest in construction, which lost 1,600 jobs.
California's jobless rate was 12.2 percent in February, down from 12.4 percent in January and below the rate in February 2010, when the rate was also 12.4 percent, according to the EDD.
The comparable estimates for the nation were 8.9 percent in February, 9 percent in January and 9.7 percent for February 2010.
Statewide, 2.2 million people were out of work, down from 2.24 million in January.
