The unemployment rate in DeKalb County dropped slightly in March, at 6.8 percent, down from 7.1 percent in February and the 8.6 percent rate reported for March, 2013.The labor force in DeKalb County in March was 9,110, with 8,490 people employed and 620 out of work.In surrounding counties, White came in at 8.9 percent, Cumberland at 8.7 percent and Jackson at 8.2 percent.Warren reported a 7.7 percent rate, Smith 6.6 percent and Putnam 6.5 percent.Cannon County’s rate came in at 5.6 percent, while Wilson had a 5.3 percent rate for the month.County unemployment rates for March show a decrease in 86 counties, an increase in four, and five remained the same.Davidson County had the state’s lowest major metropolitan rate, at 5.5 percent in March, down from 5.6 percent in February. Knox County’s March rate was at 5.6 percent, down from 5.7 percent. Hamilton County was at 6.8 percent, down from 6.9. Shelby County was at 8.4 percent, the same as for February.