How states fared on unemployment aid, at a glance

More people sought unemployment benefits last week, though the increase comes one week after applications fell to their lowest level in four years. Layoffs have fallen in recent months and fewer people are seeking benefits, signs of a healthier job market.

States with the biggest decreases:

New York: Down 27,713, due to fewer layoffs in the transportation, education and construction industries

Pennsylvania: Down 11,687, no reason given

North Carolina: Down 9,516 due to fewer layoffs in the textile, furniture and fixtures, services, construction and manufacturing industries

Georgia: Down 9,496, due to fewer layoffs in the service, construction, trade and manufacturing industries

Alabama: Down 7,639, due to fewer layoffs in the transportation, construction and apparel industries

Texas: Down 6,880, no reason given

States with the largest increases:

Florida: Up 2,711, due to layoffs in services, agriculture, construction and retail

California: Up 1,682, due to layoffs in services