The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Columbus recorded an unemployment rate of 4.3 percent in November, up two-tenths of a percent over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 3.3 percent.

“Georgia proves that smart leadership and bold policies drive economic success,” said GDOL Emergency Interim Successor Louis DeBroux. “While other states struggle with overregulation and economic uncertainty, Georgia’s economy is thriving—job numbers are up in 12 regions, unemployment claims are down across the board, and businesses continue to choose our state as the best place to grow and invest. These results don’t happen by accident; they are the product of strong fiscal policies and a commitment to empowering job creators and hardworking Georgians. As we close out the year, Georgia remains a perennial leader in opportunity, innovation, and prosperity.”

The labor force decreased in Columbus by 93 and ended the month with 122,989. That number went up by 1,792 when compared to November of 2023.

Columbus finished the month with 117,722 employed residents. That number decreased by 356 over-the-month and rose by 519 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Columbus ended November with 125,400 jobs. Jobs were up 600 over-the-month and rose by 1,500 when compared to this time last year.

In November, initial unemployment claims decreased by 162 in Columbus. When you compare November 2024 claims to November 2023, claims were down by 114, totaling 301.