Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Athens recorded an unemployment rate of 3.6 percent in October, up two-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.0 percent.

"While most regions across Georgia experienced a slight uptick in unemployment, our state continues to lead the way with an unemployment rate well below the national average," said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. "As job growth slows across the nation, Georgia’s resilience shines through—driven by commonsense policies that prioritize opportunity, growth, and a workforce ready to lead. This stability proves that Georgia’s economy is built not just to withstand challenges but to thrive for generations to come."

The labor force increased in Athens by 828 and ended the month with 106,121. That number went up by 2,439 when compared to October of 2023.

Athens finished the month with 102,295 employed residents. That number increased by 564 over-the-month and rose by 1,768 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Athens ended October with 106,500 jobs, an all-time high. That number increased by 800 over-the-month and rose by 1,800 when compared to this time last year.

In October, initial unemployment claims increased by 174 in Athens. When you compare October 2024 claims to October 2023, claims were up by 281, totaling 551.