According to numbers released yesterday, Georgia’s October unemployment rate stood at 3. 6 percent, the same as in September. It was lower than the national rate. Commissioner Bruce Thompson attributed Georgia’s stable unemployment rate to pro-business policies. In October, jobs increased by 1,500, totaling 4,985,500 over the year. Noteworthy job gains were in Accommodation and Food Services, Health Care, Social Assistance and Local Government. Conversely, job losses occurred in Administrative Support, Transportation, Information, Arts, Entertainment, and Non-Durable Goods Manufacturing sectors.

Private Education, Health Services, and Leisure, Hospitality, saw the highest job growth. The Health Care, Social Assistance, and Accommodation, Food Services, Local Government sectors contributed significantly to annual job gains. Job losses during the year were mainly in Administrative, Information, Wholesale Trade, and Transportation sectors. The labor force reached an all-time high of 5,416,696, with 85,853 more participants in the past year. Employment increased to an all-time high of 5,220,494, with 61,395 more employed over 12 months.

Unemployment rose slightly to 196,202, the highest since July 2021, with an increase of 24,458 over the year. Initial claims also rose, reaching 28,642 in October, up by 9,042. Employers can contact the Georgia Department of Labor for assistance. Claimants seeking unemployment benefits can call 877. 709. 8185 or visit MyUI Claimant Portal. Georgia’s Career Centers offer in-person services for unemployment insurance and benefits. Explore the Georgia LaborMarket Explorer for more labor force data.