COLUMBUS — Unemployment dropped for a third straight month in both Montgomery County and Dayton in April, with the county rate taking the sharpest dip.

The county rate went from 12.5 percent in March to 12 percent, while the jobless rate in Dayton dropped from 13.4 percent in March to 13.3 percent, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services reported Tuesday, May 25.

It was part of a statewide trend, with the unemployment rate decreasing in 87 of 88 counties, including all in the Dayton area.

Despite the lower rates, April marked the 16th consecutive month of double-digit joblessness for both Montgomery County and Dayton, dating back to January 2009.

Across the state, the highest unemployment rate was 17.7 percent in Clinton County, a continuing reminder of the loss of DHL jobs.

The lowest rate was 7.9 percent in both Geauga County, east of Cleveland and Delaware County, north of Columbus.

Among Dayton area counties, Preble County tied Montgomery County for the highest rate at 12 percent.

Warren County’s 9.6 percent rate was the lowest among area counties.

Among area cities, Trotwood’s 13.2 percent rate was the highest, but it was down from 14 percent in March. Mason’s 7.7 percent rate was the lowest among area cities.

The rates for cities and counties are not seasonally adjusted. The not seasonally adjusted rate for the state in April was 10.7 percent, down from 11.5 percent in March. The state seasonally adjusted rate for April 10.9 percent, down from 11 percent in March.

Unemployment rates for Dayton-area counties for April 2010 and April 2009

Unemployment rates for Dayton-area cities for April 2010 and April 2009

Contact this reporter at (614) 224-1608 or whershey@DaytonDailyNews.com.