The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) released figures Thursday indicating an increase in unemployment across Northwest Georgia for the month of February, a stark contrast to the overall positive trend seen across the state. The unemployment rate for the region rose by one-tenth of a percent to 3.5% in February. This figure is also higher than the 3.2% recorded a year ago.

This increase is attributed to a decline in both the labor force and the number of employed individuals. According to the GDOL report, the labor force in Northwest Georgia decreased by 1,258 individuals over the month, and 1,077 over the year, bringing the total to 453,247. The number of employed residents also saw a decline, dropping by 1,885 over the month and 2,649 over the year, settling at 437,189. Interestingly, initial claims for unemployment benefits saw a significant decrease over the month, dropping by 5,786 to 2,216. However, this number is still slightly higher than the 2,172 claims filed in February of last year.

Despite the concerning regional figures, GDOL Interim Successor Louis DeBroux remains optimistic about the state’s overall economic health. “Jobs are growing, and so is Georgia’s future,” said DeBroux in a press release. “With regional job growth across Georgia in February and the state’s unemployment rate holding steady at 3.6%—well below the national average—Georgia continues to prove itself as the #1 place where businesses and talent thrive.”

While Northwest Georgia’s numbers paint a different picture, the GDOL emphasizes the strength of the state’s economy as a whole. Further details and specific data for each county within Northwest Georgia can be found on the GDOL website.