Whatcom County’s unemployment rate last month was 7.5 percent—a slight drop from 7.7 percent in May, according to preliminary figures the Washington State Employment Security Department.

Statewide, the rate was 8.2 percent in June, while nationally it was 8.4.

About 4,530 new jobs have been created in Whatcom County between June 2011—when countywide unemployment was at 8.4 percent—and June 2012.

Hot sectors for job increases include private service providers and the trade, transportation and utilities industries.

Following trends on the local, state and national levels, the county’s public-sector job level is down since June 2011. The leisure and hospitality industries also saw decreases.

More information can be found at the Employment Security Department’s website.