Northwest Georgia’s workforce continued to grow in September, with both the labor force and the number of employed residents reaching all-time highs, according to new figures released Thursday by the Georgia Department of Labor.
The Northwest Georgia Regional Commission, which includes Walker County and surrounding communities, reported a labor force of 467,432 in September, an increase of 6,163 from August and 12,004 compared to September of last year.
The number of employed residents also reached a record high of 451,603, an increase of 5,338 over the month and 10,995 over the year.
Despite the employment gains, the region’s unemployment rate edged up slightly to 3.4 percent in September, compared to 3.3 percent in August. The rate was also 3.3 percent in September 2025.
The latest figures reflect continued workforce growth across Northwest Georgia, including communities such as LaFayette, Chickamauga, Rossville, Ringgold, Dalton, Calhoun and Rome.
However, the region also experienced an increase in initial unemployment claims. Claims rose by 695 over the month and 102 compared to a year ago, reaching 2,053 in September.
The Georgia Department of Labor reported that all 12 of the state’s Regional Commissions recorded increases in both their labor forces and employment during September.
Six regions, including Northwest Georgia, reached all-time highs in both categories. The other regions setting records were Atlanta, Central Savannah River, Coastal Georgia, Northeast Georgia and Three Rivers.
“Momentum is building across Georgia,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “With sustained regional growth, our strong economy and competitive workforce drive continuous opportunity. We are building the Top State for Talent to keep Georgia the clear choice for job creators and families alike.”
For Walker County and the surrounding Northwest Georgia area, the September report indicates that more residents are participating in the workforce and more people are employed than at any previous point recorded for the region.
While the slight increase in unemployment and the rise in initial claims remain areas to watch, the record employment and labor force figures highlight continued growth in the regional labor market.
The figures represent the Northwest Georgia region as a whole and are not specific to Walker County. County-level unemployment and employment figures are reported separately by the Georgia Department of Labor.