Northwest Georgia continued to show strength in February, with job growth and a steady unemployment rate highlighting positive momentum in the region’s labor market, according to new data released Thursday by the Georgia Department of Labor.
The unemployment rate in northwest Georgia remained unchanged at 3.5% over the month, slightly above the 3.4% rate reported one year ago. Meanwhile, the region’s labor force grew by 3,205 people in February, bringing the total to 457,800. Over the past year, the labor force has increased by 3,715.
Employment numbers also saw gains, rising by 2,906 over the month to reach 441,612. Compared to February of last year, the number of employed residents increased by 2,787.
At the same time, initial unemployment claims dropped significantly, falling by 4,265 over the month and by 377 over the year, totaling 1,839 in February — a sign of continued stability in the job market.
Statewide, all of Georgia’s Regional Commissions reported increases in both labor force and employment.
“Georgia’s latest labor market data shows continued growth in both the labor force and employment as more Georgians are working and stepping into opportunity across the state,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “That matters because when more people are working, businesses gain access to talent, families gain stability, and Georgia is better positioned to compete, win and adapt in today’s global economy.”