Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Columbus recorded an unemployment rate of 4.7 percent in August, up three-tenths of a percent over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 4.1 percent.

“Innovation drives opportunity, and that is exactly why Georgia has secured the top spot for business for 11 years running,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “With statewide unemployment on the rise over the past four months, it’s crucial that we strengthen our efforts to connect more Georgians with jobs, remove barriers to employment, and foster an environment where Georgia businesses and families can thrive together.”

The labor force increased in Columbus by 66 and ended the month with 123,667. That number went up by 2,590 when compared to August of 2023.

Columbus finished the month with 117,852 employed residents. That number decreased by 282 over-the-month and rose by 1,784 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Columbus ended August with 125,000 jobs. Jobs were up by 1,100 over-the-month and rose by 2,800 when compared to this time last year.

In August, initial unemployment claims decreased by 112 in Columbus. When you compare August 2024 claims to August 2023, claims were down by 96, totaling 438.