Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Athens recorded an unemployment rate of 2.4 percent in December, down one-tenth of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 2.6 percent.

“Georgia’s highly-skilled workforce and business-friendly environment continues to drive positive economic growth across all corners of the state,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “With the unemployment rate trending lower than the national average, we are well-positioned to help businesses remain competitive and find top-tier talent.”

The labor force decreased in Athens by 988 and ended the month with 103,727. That number went up by 1,501 when compared to December of 2021.

Athens finished the month with 101,194 employed residents. That number decreased by 891 over the month and rose by 1,616 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Athens ended December with 104,900 jobs. That number decreased by 900 from November to December and increased by 4,700 when compared to this time last year.

The number of unemployment claims went up 9 percent in Athens in December. When compared to last December, claims were down by about 4 percent.