The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the seven-county Augusta Metropolitan Statistical Area reported an unemployment rate of 3.7% in May, up four-tenths of a percentage point over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.8%.  

"Every May, a new wave of talent enters Georgia's workforce as thousands of graduates begin their career search. This is what a growing talent pipeline looks like, and it is why companies keep investing here year after year,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. "With more than 5 million jobs across our state, there is a place for every Georgian, from the graduate landing a first role to the seasoned professional taking the next step. That is the kind of opportunity you can build a life on, and we will keep it within reach in every corner of our state."

The labor force in Augusta was down 2,859 over the month and increased by 6,049 over the year, reaching 281,655. 

 Augusta finished the month with 271,271 employed residents. That number decreased by 3,749 over the month and rose by 6,139 compared to the same time a year ago.

Augusta ended the month with 255,100 jobs, down 2,900 over the month and up 500 from the same time last year.  

  In May, initial unemployment claims decreased by 133 over the month and 64 from the same time a year ago, totaling 620. 

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

Media Contact: Chief Communications Officer, 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.