GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR: ROME, NWGA SEE DROP IN FEBRUARY UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

(Media release from the Georgia Department of Labor):

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Rome recorded an unemployment rate of 3.4 percent in February, down two-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.3 percent.

“Pro-growth policies that foster innovation and drive success are why Georgia remains the No. 1 state for business and a perennial powerhouse in talent development,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “Even with a slowing nationwide economy, communities across Georgia continue to thrive with low unemployment and high job growth.”

The labor force increased in Rome by 274 and ended the month with 45,316. That number rose by 1,677 when compared to February of 2022.

Rome finished the month with 43,784 employed residents. That number increased by 367 over the month and increased by 1,580 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Rome ended February with 44,100 jobs. That number increased by 400 from January to February and went up by 2,500 when compared to this time last year.

Historically, claims increase every January due to temporary seasonal manufacturing shutdowns and the retail sector shedding workers hired for the holiday season. In February, initial unemployment claims decreased by 61 percent in Rome, dropping back to normal levels. When you compare February 2023 claims to February 2022, claims were up by about 91 percent.

Northwest Georgia Regional Commission – Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Fannin, Floyd, Gilmer, Gordon, Haralson, Murray, Paulding, Pickens, Polk, Walker, and Whitfield counties.

  • The unemployment rate was down three-tenths to 3.3 percent o-t-m, the rate was 3.1 percent one year ago.
  • The labor force was up 1,705 o-t-m and up 5,627 o-t-y, to 434,655, an all-time high.
  • The number of employed was up 3,055 o-t-m and up 4,812 o-t-y, to 420,418, an all-time high.
  • Initial claims were down 6,409 (-67%) o-t-m and up 1,379 (77%) o-t-y, to 3,163.

For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff at https://dol.georgia.gov/employeremail. Additionally, by visiting Employ Georgia, employers can manage job openings and access the state’s talent pool. GDOL’s Career Centers are providing in-person employment services for customers across the state.

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