Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Augusta recorded an unemployment rate of 4.5 percent in September, down eight-tenths of a percent over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 3.5 percent.

“This fall, unemployment rates are dropping all across Georgia,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “While some metro areas throughout the state have seen a slight dip in jobs, the overall increase in employment shows that more residents are finding work and contributing to our local economies. I will continue to fight for the resources our citizens need to thrive and ensure that Georgia's economy remains competitive and the No. 1 place to do business for years to come.”

The labor force increased in Augusta by 408 and ended the month with 267,851. That number went up by 4,162 when compared to September of 2023.

Augusta finished the month with 255,821 employed residents. That number increased by 2,595 over-the-month and rose by 1,466 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Augusta ended September with 247,300 jobs. That number increased by 700 over-the-month and was up by 3,600 when compared to this time last year.

In September, initial unemployment claims decreased by 372 in Augusta. When you compare September 2024 claims to September 2023, claims were up by 73, totaling 818.