Columbus Unemployment Rate Inches Up Slightly in January

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Friday, March 15th, 2024

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Columbus recorded an unemployment rate of 3.9 percent in January, up five-tenths from the previous month. A year ago, the rate was 4.3 percent. 
 
“Georgia's January unemployment rate hit its lowest point in over a year,” said Commissioner Thompson. “This speaks volumes about our state's economic resilience and ability to lead when times get tough. Regionally, we are seeing a slight seasonal uptick in January unemployment, but Georgia continues to be forward-thinking in its policy decisions and focus on sustainable economic growth. While we may see some softening of the economy over the coming months, Georgia is in a better position than most to overcome any challenges heading our way.”

The labor force increased in Columbus by 984 and ended the month with 121,664. That number went up by 2,353 when compared to January of 2023.

Columbus finished the month with 116,957 employed residents. That number increased by 359 over-the-month and rose by 2,741 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Columbus ended January with 122,300 jobs. Jobs were down 1,600 from December to January and rose by 2,700 when compared to this time last year.

In January, initial unemployment claims increased by 692 (107%) in Columbus. When you compare January 2024 claims to January 2023, claims were down by 56 (-4%).