Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Columbus recorded an unemployment rate of 4.2 percent in August, up six-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 4.2 percent. 

"August unemployment numbers continue to reinforce the strength of a vibrant Georgia economy," said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. "With the uptick in unemployment over the past month, it requires diligent and deliberate focus to balance opportunity with the needs within the state's workforce."

The labor force decreased in Columbus by 49 and ended the month with 124,306. That number went up by 3,498 when compared to August of 2022.

Columbus finished the month with 119,130 employed residents. That number decreased by 731 over-the-month and rose by 3,353 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Columbus ended August with 125,600 jobs. That number remained unchanged from July to August and rose by 4,200 when compared to this time last year.

In August, initial unemployment claims decreased by 369 (-41%) in Columbus. When you compare August 2023 claims to August 2022, claims were down by 320 (-38%).