Labor Dept reports dip in Athens area unemployment rate

The state Labor Department is reporting another dip in the Athens area unemployment rate: the jobless rate for Clarke, Oconee, Oglethorpe, and Madison counties checked in at 2.9 percent in February, down from 3.1 percent the month before.

From the Ga Dept of Labor…

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Athens recorded an unemployment rate of 2.9 percent in February, down two-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.2 percent.

“Georgia continues to thrive, fueled by a powerhouse workforce and savvy economic investments,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “For the past 48 months and counting, Georgia has continued to outshine the nation with low unemployment and high-quality jobs. Our regional unemployment numbers are a testament to this remarkable track record of success and Georgia’s ability to drive economic opportunity across virtually every corner of the state.”

The labor force increased in Athens by 938 and ended the month with 104,320. That number went up by 4,385 when compared to February of 2023.

Athens finished the month with 101,253 employed residents. That number increased by 1,081 over-the-month and rose by 4,523 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Athens ended February with 104,300 jobs. That number increased by 800 from January to February and rose by 4,000 when compared to this time last year.

In February, initial unemployment claims decreased by 32 (-11%) in Athens. When you compare February 2024 claims to February 2023, claims were up by 49 (24%).

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