High Country Times

49.2 percent of West Jefferson residents between 16 and 65 years old were unemployed in 2018, according to data obtained from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The percentage of unemployed residents was greater than the statewide total of 37.6 percent for this demographic group. In 2018 the total West Jefferson population reached 1,257.

Out of 638 people who had a job, all belonged to the civilian labor force.

The total unemployment numbers include residents of all ages who are not working.

Employment status	Number of people	Percentage of population
Not employed	619	49.2
Employed	638	50.8
Employed in civilian labor force	638	50.8
Employed in armed forces	0	0