SIDNEY, Neb. — Cheyenne County’s economy continues to show signs of strength and resilience, with local unemployment remaining below the statewide average despite minor seasonal fluctuations, according to a recent update from the Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce.

Director Joe McCarn highlighted data from the Federal Reserve showing Cheyenne County recorded a 2.6% unemployment rate in April 2025, up from 2.2% in March. Rates peaked at 3.2% in February and held between 2.5% and 2.8% at the close of 2024. In comparison, Nebraska’s statewide unemployment rate stood at 3.0% in April.

The Chamber said the April uptick reflects seasonal changes typical of the region’s largely agricultural economy, not economic instability. The county’s labor force benefits from a diverse mix of sectors including agriculture, retail, education, health care and transportation, which help stabilize the local job market.

The Chamber said it's working on workforce development initiatives in partnership with Western Community College and local school districts. Additional efforts include small business support across rural towns like Dalton, Gurley, Lodgepole and Potter, and recruitment and retention strategies in coordination with employers such as Sidney Regional Medical Center.

Despite recent local layoffs, the Chamber said Cheyenne County’s unemployment hovering between 2.2% and 3.2% remains a strong testament to the community’s resilience. Efforts will continue to focus on preparing the workforce, empowering entrepreneurs and attracting new employers to maintain long-term stability.