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Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey
Bureau of Labor Statistics > Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey > Home

JOLTS Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) Research Estimates Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Where can I find more information about the methodology used in the production of these research series?
  3. Why are JOLTS Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) estimates published as 3-month moving averages?
    • The size of the JOLTS survey sample (of approximately 16,000 establishments) produces estimates that can be somewhat volatile at the national and regional level. Due to the small sample sizes at the MSA level, the estimates are highly volatile from month to month, making the identification of trends difficult. In order to reduce the volatility, the data are published as 3-month moving averages.
  5. What geographic and industry data are available for the JOLTS MSA research estimates?
    • JOLTS MSA research estimates are only produced for the 18 largest MSAs based on employment. These estimates are produced only at the total nonfarm industry level.
  7. How frequently will the JOLTS MSA research estimates be released?
    • Currently, these data are produced as a research series and there are no plans to produce these estimates on a recurring basis.
  9. Are other separations available for these data series?
    • While other separations are one of the three components of total separations (quits, layoffs & discharges, and other separations), other separations are not available for these research series.
  11. Are JOLTS MSA sample sizes used to produce the estimates available?
    • JOLTS MSA sample-based and model-based components are available. The JOLTS MSA Research Estimates Sample Allocation table provides a snapshot of the sample size allocation used to produce the MSA research estimates through December 2019. The sample component incorporates JOLTS MSA respondents and the model component encompasses JOLTS regional-level respondents, Current Employment Statistics Metro Area and Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages establishment counts.

Last Modified Date: July 31, 2020