Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Athens recorded an unemployment rate of 4.2 percent in August, up two-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.6 percent.

“Innovation drives opportunity, and that is exactly why Georgia has secured the top spot for business for 11 years running,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “With statewide unemployment on the rise over the past four months, it’s crucial that we strengthen our efforts to connect more Georgians with jobs, remove barriers to employment, and foster an environment where Georgia businesses and families can thrive together.”

The labor force increased in Athens by 340 and ended the month with 103,791. That number went up by 2,691 when compared to August of 2023.

Athens finished the month with 99,425 employed residents. That number increased by 148 over-the-month and rose by 1,970 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Athens ended August with 104,400 jobs. That number increased by 1,300 over-the-month and rose by 2,900 when compared to this time last year.

In August, initial unemployment claims decreased by 25 in Athens. When you compare August 2024 claims to August 2023, claims were down by 32, totaling 251.