Metro Athens’ unemployment rate decreased to 5.1 percent in July.

The rate is down one-tenth of a percentage point from 5.2 percent in June. In July 2016, the rate was 5.6 percent.

“Metro Athens’ rate declined as 775 more people went back to work,” said Commissioner Mark Butler. “It’s great to see Athens’ economy growing. Since July 2016, Athens has gained 2,600 jobs, a 2.8 percent growth rate.”

Metro Athens’ over-the-year job growth came in leisure and hospitality and government.

From June to July, jobs in Metro Athens were unchanged at 96,100.  

Unemployment claims were up by 73, or 16.3 percent, to 522. Claims were up in manufacturing.  Over the year, claims were up by 68, or 15 percent, from 454 in July 2016.

The total number of employed residents in Metro Athens rose by 775 to 95,477 from June to July.

“There were 3,568 more Metro Athens residents employed than in July 2016,” said Commissioner Butler. “I’m pleased to see we have more people in Athens employed and contributing to Georgia’s continued environment of economic opportunity.”

Employ Georgia, the GDOL’s online job listing service at employgeorgia.com showed 1,533 new active job postings in Athens for July.