Russell County tied for the largest year-over-year decline in unemployment in Kentucky, according to the Kentucky Center for Statistics.
Russell County’s unemployment rate fell from 5.9 percent in May 2025 to 4.5 percent in May 2026. That drop of 1.4 percentage points tied with Magoffin County for the largest decrease in the state.
Only 17 counties statewide saw unemployment decrease during this time period. Russell County was the only county to see a decrease in the 10-county Lake Cumberland Area.
Looking at surrounding counties, Russell County’s unemployment rate was among the lowest in the month of May.
Russell County’s unemployment rate came in at 4.5 percent. Only Cumberland County at 4.1 percent was lower.
Adair County came in at 4.6 percent, Casey County at 5 percent, Pulaski County at 5.1 percent, and Clinton County at 5.5 percent.
Wayne County had the highest unemployment rate in the area at 6.8 percent.
