The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Athens recorded an unemployment rate of 3.0 percent in December, down one-tenth of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 2.8 percent.

“Georgia means business,” said GDOL Interim Successor Louis DeBroux. “With historic job growth nearing 5 million and unemployment rates outperforming the national average, Georgia is well on the way to making history. By expanding opportunities for all Georgians and attracting top-tier companies to every corner of the state, our story continues to be one of resilience and sustained economic success for the people and businesses that call the Peach State home.”

The labor force in Athens decreased by 628 in December, ending the month at 104,538. That number increased by 1,489 compared to December 2023.

Athens finished the month with 101,439 employed residents, down 428 over-the-month and up 1,245 compared to the same time a year ago.

Athens ended December with 106,700 jobs, an all-time high, reflecting an increase of 100 over-the-month and 1,500 over-the-year.

In December, initial unemployment claims in Athens rose by 31 from the previous month. Comparing December 2024 to December 2023, claims increased by 77, totaling 490.