Unemployment rates fell in 93 of North Carolina’s 100 counties in April, increased in three counties and remained the same in four counties.

When compared to the same month last year, unemployment rates declined in 88 counties,

increased in 11 counties, and remained the same in one county.

“Rates continued to drop in April,” said N.C. Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Dale Carroll. “Looking at over-the-year numbers, most of North Carolina’s counties have lower unemployment rates which is certainly positive. Throughout the state, our employment service offices assist those looking to find work with various programs and job search assistance. We are committed to both citizens and employers in getting North Carolinians back to work.”

North Carolina had 32 counties that were at or below the state’s not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 9.1 percent.

For the second consecutive month, unemployment rates decreased in all 14 Metropolitan Statistical Areas.

The number of workers employed (not seasonally adjusted) increased in April by 14,542 to 4,212,226, while those unemployed decreased 24,714 to 421,197.

Since April 2011, the number of workers unemployed decreased 42,802, while those employed increased 35,770.

Currituck County had the state’s lowest unemployment rate in April at 5.3 percent, and Scotland County had the highest unemployment rate at 17.4 percent.

According to the state agency, Robeson County has a labor force of 54,743. There were 6,932 unemployed persons, giving the county an unemployment rate of 12.7 percent in April. Records show the county’s unemployment rate was 13.2 percent in April 2011.

Jobless benefits paid from May 2011 to May 2012 to Robeson residents totaled $47,101,934.

April 2012 unemployment rates for neighboring counties are: Cumberland, 9.4 percent; Bladen, 11.3 percent; Columbus, 12.1 percent; and Hoke, 8.9 percent.