The Impact of the NHL Lockout on County Employment

John Jasina and Kurt Rotthoff

The National Hockey League (NHL) had a lockout that lasted the entire 2004–2005 season. Because this lockout cancelled the season, it provides a unique opportunity to analyze the economic impact on county employment and payroll in the sectors relevant to the sporting world. We test 3- and 4-digit NAICS codes, including Accommodation, Drinking Places, Restaurants, and Spectator Sports. Using the impact found in a county with an NHL team, relative to trends in the surrounding counties, we find no general impact on employment, but we find a decrease in payroll in some sectors.