In September, Georgia’s economy showed steady growth, adding 6,800 jobs and experiencing a slight increase in unemployment. Over the past year, the state added 66,900 jobs, despite the Federal Reserve’s efforts to combat inflation with high interest rates.

Job growth has been inconsistent across sectors, with gains in health care and hospitality, but losses in education and logistics. Despite job losses in some areas, overall unemployment claims were down from the previous year. The unemployment rate remained at 3. 6%, slightly higher than the previous year but lower than the national rate of 4. 1%. Some companies have announced upcoming layoffs in November and December.

Georgia’s economy benefits from structural advantages such as in-migration trends, which are expected to continue.

The final months of the year typically see significant job growth. Demand for logistics and retail workers has returned to pre-pandemic levels, with job postings slightly higher than in 2019. Amazon plans to hire 250,000 workers nationwide, including 1,000 in Georgia. Analysts expect strong consumer spending during the holiday season, with an anticipated $1. 66 trillion in seasonal spending, a 3% increase from the previous year.