By Grace Saidi/WUGA
The unemployment rate in Athens saw a slight rise in January.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Athens reported an unemployment rate of 3.1%, up from December's 2.8%.
The city saw an increase in both the labor force and employed residents. The labor force saw a 639 person increase. Athens finished the month with 100,473 employed residents, which is over 5,000 more residents when compared to January of last year.
“Georgia's January unemployment rate hit its lowest point in over a year,” Thompson said. “This speaks volumes about our state's economic resilience and ability to lead when times get tough. Regionally, we are seeing a slight seasonal uptick in January unemployment, but Georgia continues to be forward-thinking in its policy decisions and focus on sustainable economic growth. While we may see some softening of the economy over the coming months, Georgia is in a better position than most to overcome any challenges heading our way.”
In comparison to last January, the unemployment rate is down two-tenths of a point, but unemployment claims have risen by 6%, despite initial claims being down in Athens by 31%. The city ended January with 103,800 jobs, up 5,100 from January last year.