The Georgia Department of labor announced Thursday that Athens recorded an unemployment rate of 3.2 percent in January, up four-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.3 percent.

“Georgia’s success is driven by its people, and we remain committed to supporting them every step of the way," said GDOL Interim Commissioner Louis DeBroux. While job growth has faced challenges this month, key industries across the state continue to offer opportunities for hardworking Georgians. Even with the rise in unemployment, our mission remains clear—helping Georgia’s workers find and keep meaningful employment in every corner of our state.”

The labor force increased in Athens by 727 and ended the month with 109,994. That number went up by 2,421 when compared to January of 2024.

Athens finished the month with 106,498 employed residents. That number increased by 319 over-the-month and rose by 2,462 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Athens ended January with 105,500 jobs. That number decreased by 1,400 from December to January and rose by 3,100 when compared to this time last year.

In January, initial unemployment claims decreased by 221 in Athens. When you compare January 2024 claims to January 2025, claims were down by 17, totaling 269.