Metro Augusta’s unemployment rate increased to 5.2 percent in July.

The rate is up one-tenth of a percentage point from 5.1 percent in June. In July 2016, the rate was 6.1 percent.

The rate rose because unemployment claims were up by 446, or 36.9 percent, to 1,655. Claims were up in manufacturing. Over the year, claims were down by 141, or 7.9 percent, from 1,796 in July 2016.

“While Metro Augusta’s rate increased slightly, 2,242 more people went back to work,” said Commissioner Mark Butler. “It’s great to see Augusta’s economy growing. Since July 2016, Augusta has gained 6,400 jobs, a 2.8 percent growth rate.”

Metro Augusta’s over-the-year job growth came mostly in education and health services, leisure and hospitality, and professional and business services.

From June to July, jobs in Metro Augusta were unchanged at 237,800.  

The total number of employed residents in Metro Augusta rose by 2,242 to 255,870 from June to July.

“There were 7,793 more Metro Augusta residents employed than in July 2016,” said Commissioner Butler. “I’m pleased to see we have more people in Augusta employed and contributing to Georgia’s continued environment of economic opportunity.”

Employ Georgia, the GDOL’s online job listing service at employgeorgia.com showed 3,728 new active job postings in Augusta for July.