Raleigh, N.C. — Unemployment in North Carolina fell for the third straight month in November, declining to 9.1 percent from 9.3 percent in October, the state reported Friday.

The rate hit 9.7 percent in August then fell to 9.6 percent in September.

Joblessness last month was 1.3 percentage points lower than a year ago.

Another 34,884 people found jobs in November, lifting the statewide total to just over 4.3 million. That total represents an increase of more than 120,00 from a year ago, the state said.

Trade, transportation and utilities firms added the most jobs at 7,300 followed by professional and business services at 5,400.

The state noted that since unemployment reached a record high of 11.4 percent in February 2010 the economy has produced 145,300 jobs.

County-by-county and metropolitan area unemployment figures will be released Jan. 3.