Georgia Labor Commissioner Mark Butler said Thursday that Athens set another record in November for total jobs.
 
At the same time, the unemployment rate fell and Athens added to its number of employed residents. Athens  maintained annual growth in all critical measures for the 4-county metropolitan statistical area (MSA).    
 
“This really has been a great year for Georgia,” Butler said. “Across the state we continue to add jobs, and find people to fill them. We’ve routinely set records. There is much to be thankful for this holiday season.”
 
The unemployment rate for November, at 3 percent, was down 0.4 percent over the previous month. A year ago, the rate was 4 percent. That rate was tied for second lowest among the 14 MSAs. The rate decreased in 13 of the 14 MSAs.
 
The labor force in Athens fell by 83 in November to reach 105,614. That number is up by 3,161 over the past year – an average monthly increase of about 260.
 
Athens added 315 employed residents in November, pushing the total to 102,441. The number is up 4,035 for the year, or about 340 per month.
 
Jobs grew by 600 in November 103,300 - a record high. The job total in Athens is up 4,300 over the year – an average monthly increase of almost 360.
 
Claims for unemployment insurance decreased by 8 percent in November. They were up by 4 percent when compared to the same month a year ago.