Fox21Online The unemployment rate fell in the Northland from 6 to 5.5% in February. April 1, 2021 The labor force also added almost 2,000 workers, which is a 1.2% increase. Duluth has regained about half of the jobs that were lost due to the pandemic, according to experts from workforce development. The largest number of jobs lost because of COVID were in the hospitality industry. As bars and restaurants have been able to open with larger capacity, they are able to hire more staff. The industry is also gearing up for the summer, as good weather can mean more opportunities for work. There is also high optimism as access to vaccines will help loosen things up.