Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Athens recorded an unemployment rate of 3.4 percent in September, down eight-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 2.8 percent.

“This fall, unemployment rates are dropping all across Georgia,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “While some metro areas throughout the state have seen a slight dip in jobs, the overall increase in employment shows that more residents are finding work and contributing to our local economies. I will continue to fight for the resources our citizens need to thrive and ensure that Georgia's economy remains competitive and the No. 1 place to do business for years to come.”

The labor force increased in Athens by 1,759 and ended the month with 105,502. That number went up by 2,272 when compared to September of 2023.

Athens finished the month with 101,944 employed residents. That number increased by 2,562 over-the-month and rose by 1,611 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Athens ended September with 105,900 jobs, an all-time high. That number increased by 1,600 over-the-month and rose by 2,200 when compared to this time last year.

In September, initial unemployment claims increased by 126 in Athens. When you compare September 2024 claims to September 2023, claims were up by 177, totaling 377.