The LFPR is considered by many to be a more accurate measure of the state of the economy
Upper Cumberland – The Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in the Upper Cumberland is well below the national average, according to the Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The LFPR calculates the number of people employed or actively seeking employment who are 16 and older divided by the total non-institutionalized, civilian working-age population.
The Tennessee LFPR has dropped significantly from 61% in June to 58% in December, three points under the national average. The LFPR is considered by many to be a more accurate measure of the economy. Together with unemployment numbers, it can offer some perspective. Because it counts both people actively hunting for work and those employed, LFPR gives a more reliable figure than the unemployment rate alone.
There are three major influences on LFPR: economic, demographic and social. Industrialization of an area can play a role in the number as well. The more industry, the more jobs or places to look for work.
In the Upper Cumberland, Smith County is as close to the national average as any other county at 58% LFPR. Macon County stands at 57.7%, Cannon County has a 56.8% LFPR, Overton County sits at 52.9%, while Putnam and White Counties come in at 53% and 50.3%, respectively.
No other county in the Upper Cumberland cracked the 50% threshold.
Pickett County sits at 48.6%, Jackson County has a 48.3% LFPR, and Warren County sits at 47.2%. Fentress County is at 47.7%, while DeKalb County stands at 45.6%. Cumberland County sits at 43%, Clay County sits at 42%, and Van Buren County rounds out the area with a 40.8% LFPR.
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