THE JOBLESS rate in Orange County fell from 3.7 percent in March to 3.3 percent in April.

Unemployment in Orange County continues to drop, according to a report issued Friday by the state Employment Development Department. The jobless rate fell from 3.7 percent in March to 3.3 percent in April.

That compares to the May 2016 figure of 4 percent, and this month’s statewide estimate of 4.5 percent, and national estimate of 4.1 percent.

Although the rate of unemployment fell, the total number of people employed declined by 3,100, with the biggest drop coming in the categories of trade, transportation and utilities. They saw a decrease of 2,700.

There were also decreases in professional and business services (2,100) and manufacturing (1,200). The biggest increases came in leisure and hospitality, which showed a jump of 2,600 jobs, with most of that in food services and accommodations (hotels).

On a year-to-year basis, Orange County has gained 7,300 jobs over April 2016.