Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Columbus recorded an unemployment rate of 3.3 percent in December, down two-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.3 percent.

“Georgia’s highly-skilled workforce and business-friendly environment continues to drive positive economic growth across all corners of the state,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “With the unemployment rate trending lower than the national average, we are well-positioned to help businesses remain competitive and find top-tier talent.”

The labor force increased in Columbus by 176 and ended the month with 121,842. That number went down by 904 when compared to December of 2021.

Columbus finished the month with 117,869 employed residents. That number increased by 428 over the month and went down by 815 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Columbus ended December with 123,400 jobs. That number went up by 300 from November to December and rose by 1,900 when compared to this time last year.

The number of unemployment claims went up by 43 percent in Columbus in December. When compared to last December, claims were up by about 16 percent.