Augusta Unemployment Rate Inches Up Slightly in January

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Friday, March 15th, 2024

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Augusta recorded an unemployment rate of 3.7 percent in January, up three-tenths over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 3.9 percent.
 
“Georgia's January unemployment rate hit its lowest point in over a year,” said Commissioner Thompson. “This speaks volumes about our state's economic resilience and ability to lead when times get tough. Regionally, we are seeing a slight seasonal uptick in January unemployment, but Georgia continues to be forward-thinking in its policy decisions and focus on sustainable economic growth. While we may see some softening of the economy over the coming months, Georgia is in a better position than most to overcome any challenges heading our way.”

The labor force increased in Augusta by 1,155 and ended the month with 263,144. That number went down by 623 when compared to January of 2023.

Augusta finished the month with 253,431 employed residents. That number increased by 285 over-the-month and rose by 20 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Augusta ended January with 243,100 jobs. That number decreased by 3,500 from December to January and was down by 1,200 when compared to this time last year.

In January, initial unemployment claims increased by 564 (45%) in Augusta. When you compare January 2024 claims to January 2023, claims were up by 149 (9%)