Savannah Standard

Georgia's unemployment rate in September experienced a marginal increase, reaching 3.4 percent, while the state achieved a historic high in job numbers, particularly in sectors like Private Education and Health Services, with experts attributing this growth to the resilient state economy and surging industry demands.

According to the press release by the Georgia Department of Labor, the unemployment rate stood at four-tenths below the national average. Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said in the department's press release: "In the face of Georgia’s resilient, opportunity-filled economy, we find ourselves at a pivotal crossroads, navigating the delicate balance between surging industry demands and an available workforce. As job numbers continue to outpace available talent, it will require all hands on deck to help maintain Georgia’s decade-long reign as the #1 place to do business."

Georgia's September unemployment rate increased slightly to 3.4 percent, up from August's revised 3.3 percent, remaining lower than the national average. The state's job numbers hit an all-time high, with 17,100 jobs added over the month and 96,100 over the year. Several sectors, including Private Education and Health Services, Leisure and Hospitality, and Financial Activities, saw significant job growth, while initial jobless claims decreased by 17 percent over the month.

The Department of Labor's press release stated that Georgia added 17,100 jobs in September, reaching a record high of 4,942,700, with significant gains in sectors like Accommodation and Food Services, Health Care and Social Assistance, and Local Government. The state's labor force also grew to an all-time high of 5,339,329, showing a year-over-year increase of 106,955 and a higher participation rate of 61.5 percent.

The press release by the department went on to further state that in September, Georgians had access to 96,000 job listings online, with Piedmont Healthcare, Emory Health Care, Randstad, Wellstar Health System, and Northside Hospital ranking among the top five employers.

AP News reported last week that the national unemployment rate remained unchanged at 3.8% between August and September, compared to 3.5% a year ago.

Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson assumed office as Georgia's Commissioner of Labor on January 12, 2023. Prior to this role, he had a background that included service in the U.S. Army National Guard, entrepreneurship, and a position as a state senator in Georgia, where he chaired various committees and received legislative recognition. Thompson resides in Cartersville with his family.