The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the seven-county Augusta Metropolitan Statistical Area recorded an unemployment rate of 4.8% in January, up six-tenths over the month. A year ago, the rate was 4.2%. January’s increases in unemployment rates across the state reflect historical patterns as many seasonal and holiday-related positions come to an end. 

“Georgia’s diversified economy is one of our greatest competitive advantages,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “That mix of industries and talent allows us to respond quickly to shifting workforce demands across sectors while continuing to expand opportunity for hardworking Georgians — a strength that helps Georgia remain a top state for business and talent.”

The labor force in Augusta was up 539 over the month and up 4,555 over the year, totaling 278,907, an all-time high.

Augusta finished the month with 265,642 employed residents. That number decreased by 1,113 over the month and increased by 2,796 compared to the same time a year ago.

Augusta ended the month with 252,200 jobs, down 3,400 over the month and up 2,100 from the same time last year.

In January, initial unemployment claims rose by 249 over the month and increased by 16 from the same time a year ago, totaling 1,304.

Contact Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685

Media Contact: Director of Communications, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].gov
Phone Number: 678-350-6878

For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff at https://dol.georgia.gov/employeremail. 

For more information on unemployment benefits, claimants should call 877.709.8185 or visit their MyUI Claimant Portal. GDOL's Career Centers also provide in-person unemployment insurance benefit services for customers statewide.

For more information on jobs and current labor force data, visit Georgia LaborMarket Explorer to view a comprehensive report.