BALTIMORE, MD—The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics released state jobs and unemployment data on Friday morning.

According to the preliminary survey data, Maryland added 53,900 jobs and the unemployment rate decreased to 7.6% in July. In the last three months, Maryland has gained 156,200 jobs.

The Leisure and Hospitality sector experienced the most growth with an increase of 26,100 jobs. The Trade, Transportation, and Utilities sector increased by 8,300 jobs from the Retail Trade (5,500), Transportation, Warehousing, and Utilities (2,500), and Wholesale Trade (300) subsectors.

Other sectors that experienced growth include: Other Services (4,100); Mining, Logging, and Construction (2,600); Manufacturing (1,500); Financial Activities (600); and Information (100).

The Professional and Business Services sector decreased by 2,500 jobs. The Education and Health Services sector decreased by 500 jobs.

June’s preliminary jobs estimate was revised upwards by 5,600 jobs, from a gain of 68,300 jobs to a gain of 73,900 jobs.

“According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Maryland added 53,900 jobs in July, and the unemployment rate decreased to 7.6%—more than 25% lower than the national unemployment rate, and the lowest in the region,” said Governor Larry Hogan on Friday. “Maryland has now gained 156,200 jobs during our ongoing COVID-19 recovery.”

“I want to thank the many businesses that have been taking the health and safety precautions so seriously and taking the #MarylandStrong Back to Business pledge,” Governor Hogan added. “Your actions are helping us get more Marylanders back to work, and keep Maryland open for business.”