The total number of jobs in Washington increased in November, although the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was unchanged at 5.6 percent, according to the state Employment Security Department (ESD).

The unemployment rate measures how many people in the state do not have jobs, and are actively seeking work. The percentage did not decrease as jobs were added because more people decided to look for work.

ESD’s “Washington State Employment Situation Report” indicates that seasonally adjusted nonfarm employment was up 6,200 from October to November. While job gains were widespread, retail saw particularly strong growth, adding 900 jobs.

“Washington’s economy has expanded steadily over the last 14 months,” said Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee. “Employers have added workers every month and people continue to find jobs.”

The number of unemployed workers fell by roughly 5,600 since November 2004.

Lee said she encourages the estimated 187,000 unemployed workers in Washington to visit a local WorkSource office and to check online job listings at http://www.go2worksource.com.