Georgia's 136 credit unions experienced continued loan growth in the third quarter of 2014, enjoying the highest third quarter jump in more than a decade. 

Automobile lending maintained its position as the top performing loan category. Unsecured loans and first mortgage loans were also up in the third quarter. 

The current average rate on a 4-year used vehicle loan at a Georgia credit union is 1.01 percentage points lower than average bank rates according to Informa Research Services. 

"It's not a surprise that as the economy improves, consumers are looking to purchase bigger ticket items," said Mike Mercer, President and CEO of Georgia Credit Union Affiliates. "When people are considering financing options, they're looking for great interest rates and rapid approval times. But, they're often looking for trustable advice...tough to find in the car-buying experience. That's what they get at a credit union. And the consistent growth in membership and loans shows that consumers appreciate how credit unions help them afford life."

 Highlights from the report:

• Total loans for Georgia credit unions grew by 4.2 percent in the third quarter, the highest third quarter growth in more than a decade.

• Economic improvement sets the stage for continued growth in lending.

• Automobile lending maintained its position as the top performing category for the quarter.

For more information on third quarter findings for the state's credit unions, click HERE for the latest edition of "Paying Attention." To view previous "Paying Attention" reports, click HERE.