Unemployment in Waltham feel slightly last month brining the rate to 4.1 percent, according to newly released labor data.

The 4.1 percent rate is 1 point lower than the rate in May of 2011, with 1,438 Waltham residents now unemployed, compared to 1,523 last April, according  to the data released y the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development. 

The most recent drop mirrors the statewide drop in unemployment to 5.8 percent form 5.9 percent in April.

Waltham fared similarly to Newton, which saw a .1 percent drop in its unemployment rate last month to 3.7, according to the data. Watertown’s rate fell from to 4.1 percent from 4.2 percent.

The figures reflect an increasing number of businesses planning to open to in Waltham. Panera Bread, Chipotle, Five Guys have all announced plans for stores in Waltham. Also, the proposed retail complex for the old Polaroid site will include retail stores as will a proposed development on Totten Pond Road.