Metro Columbus Sees Gains in Labor Force and Employment in September
Friday, October 23rd, 2026
The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the seven-county Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area saw growth in its labor force and employment in September. The unemployment rate rose two-tenths of a percentage point to 4.3%, up from 4.0% a year ago.
“Momentum is building across Georgia,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “With sustained regional growth, our strong economy and competitive workforce drive continuous opportunity. We are building the Top State for Talent to keep Georgia the clear choice for job creators and families alike.”
The labor force in Columbus was up by 689 over the month and by 2,429 over the year, totaling 132,005.
Columbus finished the month with 126,380 employed residents, up 419 over the month and by 1,963 from the same month last year.
Columbus ended September with 122,600 jobs, down by 600 over the month and up by 500 from the same time last year.
In September, initial unemployment claims decreased by 17 over the month and by 29 compared to the same month a year ago, totaling 341.
Contact Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685
Media Contacts:
Sr. Communications Specialist, Annalise Morning
Email: Annalise.Morning@gdol.ga.gov
Phone Number: 470-733-6638
Chief Communications Officer, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].gov
Phone Number: 678-350-6878
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685
Media Contacts:
Sr. Communications Specialist, Annalise Morning
Email: Annalise.Morning@gdol.
Phone Number: 470-733-6638
Chief Communications Officer, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].
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
Follow the Georgia Department of Labor on social media for additional news and updates.
