Metro Athens Reports Labor Force Growth in May; Unemployment Rate at 2.8%
Friday, June 26th, 2026
The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the four-county Athens Metropolitan Statistical Area saw labor force growth in May, with an unemployment rate of 2.8%, up four-tenths of a percentage point over the month. A year ago, the rate was 2.9%.
"Every May, a new wave of talent enters Georgia's workforce as thousands of graduates begin their career search. This is what a growing talent pipeline looks like, and it is why companies keep investing here year after year,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. "With more than 5 million jobs across our state, there is a place for every Georgian, from the graduate landing a first role to the seasoned professional taking the next step. That is the kind of opportunity you can build a life on, and we will keep it within reach in every corner of our state."
The labor force in Athens was up 39 over the month and increased by 5,091 over the year, to 113,394.
Athens finished the month with 110,274 employed residents, down 407 over the month and up 5,143 from a year ago.
Athens ended May with 108,700 jobs, down 300 over the month and up 3,200 over the year.
In May, initial unemployment claims were up by 54 over the month and by 32 from a year ago, totaling 227.
Contact Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685
Media Contact: Chief Communications Officer, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].
Phone Number: 678-350-6878
For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff at https://dol.georgia.gov/employeremail .
For more information on unemployment benefits, claimants should call 877.709.8185 or visit their MyUI Claimant Portal. GDOL's Career Centers also provide in-person unemployment insurance benefit services for customers statewide.
For more information on jobs and current labor force data, visit Georgia LaborMarket Explorer to view a comprehensive report.
