GAYLORD -- Northern Michigan continues to lead the state in unemployment according to recent figures released by the state.

February's unemployment rate was up by more than a third, compared to a year ago, according to data released by the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth.

"It's the reality, times are tough and things are changing," said Dawn Finnegan with the northeast chapter of Michigan Works.

Here's how the numbers break down:

MICHIGAN
(Statewide)
Feb. 2008 - 7.6% unemployment
Feb. 2009 - 12.8% unemployment

NORTHWEST LOWER MICHIGAN
(Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, Wexford counties)
Feb. 2008 - 9.6% unemployment
Feb. 2009 - 14.1% unemployment

NORTHEAST LOWER MICHIGAN
(Alcona, Alpena, Cheboygan, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon)
Feb. 2008 - 12.8% unemployment
Feb. 2009 - 17.4% unemployment

UPPER PENINSULA
(15 counties)
Feb. 2008 - 9.0% unemployment
Feb. 2009 - 12.8% unemployment

While the numbers are not good, there is a bit of a silver lining. Dawn Finnegan with Michigan Works says despite the picture the numbers may paint, there are still plenty of jobs out there.

"If you want to work hard enough, there are jobs out there," Finnegan said. "It's not going to be what your expectations are, there won't be those $18 dollar an hour jobs, but there are good jobs out there at $10, $11 an hour."

Finnegan adds that while some job seekers are tempted to steer away from part time or seasonal work, she says those are the jobs that are providing some stable pay to help families make end's meet.