Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate rose slightly in the latest report from the Georgia Department of Labor, but the region continues to show signs of a strong labor market, including a record-high workforce and solid year-over-year job growth.
Among area counties, Catoosa and Gordon counties posted the lowest unemployment rates at 2.8 percent, followed by Dade and Polk counties at 2.9 percent. Walker and Floyd counties each reported 3.0 percent, while Murray came in at 3.2 percent, Whitfield at 3.3 percent and Chattooga at 3.8 percent.
Area unemployment rates include:
- Catoosa County: 2.8%
- Gordon County: 2.8%
- Dade County: 2.9%
- Polk County: 2.9%
- Walker County: 3.0%
- Floyd County: 3.0%
- Murray County: 3.2%
- Whitfield County: 3.3%
- Chattooga County: 3.8%
Across Northwest Georgia, the unemployment rate increased four-tenths of a percentage point to 3.4 percent, matching the rate from one year ago.
Despite the slight increase, the region’s labor force continued to expand, reaching an all-time high of 460,744 workers. That represents an increase of 882 over the month and 7,391 compared to one year ago.
The number of employed residents totaled 445,054, down 994 from the previous month but still 7,254 higher than a year ago, reflecting continued long-term job growth across the region.
Initial unemployment claims rose to 1,808, an increase of 619 over the month, but remained 57 claims lower than the same period last year.
Overall, the latest labor report points to a resilient Northwest Georgia economy. While unemployment edged higher during the month, the region’s record labor force and continued year-over-year employment gains suggest employers are continuing to add jobs and attract workers.
