GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR: UNEMPLOYMENT RATE ROSE SLIGHTLY IN JANUARY FOR ROME, NORTHWEST GEORGIA

(Media release from the Georgia Department of Labor):

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Rome recorded an unemployment rate of 3.3 percent in January, up seven-tenths over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.5 percent.

“Georgia’s January unemployment rate hit its lowest point in over a year,” said Commissioner Thompson. “This speaks volumes about our state’s economic resilience and ability to lead when times get tough. Regionally, we are seeing a slight seasonal uptick in January unemployment, but Georgia continues to be forward-thinking in its policy decisions and focus on sustainable economic growth. While we may see some softening of the economy over the coming months, Georgia is in a better position than most to overcome any challenges heading our way.”

The labor force increased in Rome by 551 and ended the month with 48,606. That number went up by 2,256 when compared to January of 2023.

Rome finished the month with 47,021 employed residents. That number increased by 220 over-the-month and rose by 2,313 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Rome ended January with 47,400 jobs. That number decreased by 700 from December to January and rose by 2,100 when compared to this time last year.

In January, initial unemployment claims increased by 573 (151%) in Rome. When you compare January 2024 claims to January 2023, claims were up by 19 (2%).

Northwest Georgia

  • The unemployment rate was up four-tenths to 3.2 percent over-the-month, the rate was 3.6 percent one year ago.
  • The labor force was up 2,600 over-the-month and up 6,847 over-the-year, to 442,433, an all-time high.
  • The number of employed was up 879 over-the-month and up 8,655 over-the-year, to 428,459.
  • Initial claims were up 3,893 (101%) over-the-month and down 1,813 (-19%) over-the-year, to 7,759.

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.