The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the seven-county Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area recorded employment, labor force, and job gains in May, with an unemployment rate of 3.8%, up five-tenths of a percentage point over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.7%. 

"Every May, a new wave of talent enters Georgia's workforce as thousands of graduates begin their career search. This is what a growing talent pipeline looks like, and it is why companies keep investing here year after year,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. "With more than 5 million jobs across our state, there is a place for every Georgian, from the graduate landing a first role to the seasoned professional taking the next step. That is the kind of opportunity you can build a life on, and we will keep it within reach in every corner of our state." 

The labor force in Columbus was up 1,166 over the month and up 1,666 over the year, totaling 131,052.  

Columbus finished the month with 126,044 employed residents, up 500 over the month and 1,479 from the same month last year. 

 Columbus ended May with 123,400 jobs. Job numbers were up 900 over the month and down by 100 from the same time last year. 

 In May, initial unemployment claims decreased by 97 over the month and 54 compared to the same month a year ago, totaling 349.  

 Contact Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685

Media Contact: Chief Communications Officer, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].gov
Phone Number: 678-350-6878

For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff at https://dol.georgia.gov/employeremail.

For more information on unemployment benefits, claimants should call 877.709.8185 or visit their MyUI Claimant Portal. GDOL's Career Centers also provide in-person unemployment insurance benefit services for customers statewide.

For more information on jobs and current labor force data, visit Georgia LaborMarket Explorer to view a comprehensive report.