The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Augusta recorded an unemployment rate of 4.2 percent in December, down five-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.4 percent.

“Georgia means business,” said GDOL Interim Successor Louis DeBroux. “With historic job growth nearing 5 million and unemployment rates outperforming the national average, Georgia is well on the way to making history. By expanding opportunities for all Georgians and attracting top-tier companies to every corner of the state, our story continues to be one of resilience and sustained economic success for the people and businesses that call the Peach State home.”

The labor force in Augusta decreased by 187 in December, ending the month at 266,146. That number increased by 4,157 compared to December 2023.

Augusta finished the month with 254,942 employed residents, up 1,029 over-the-month and up 1,796 compared to the same time a year ago.

Augusta ended December with 249,400 jobs, reflecting an increase of 1,100 over-the-month and 2,800 over-the-year.

In December, initial unemployment claims in Augusta rose by 484 from the previous month. Comparing December 2024 to December 2023, claims increased by 162, totaling 1,428.