Georgia credit unions experienced a strong start in 2018.

Savings accounts increased by 4.1 percent during the first quarter, according to data from the Credit Union National Association. While that isn't as strong as the 5 percent growth posted in the first quarter of 2017, it's about in line with the national average increase of 3.9 percent.

Lending also grew steadily in the first quarter of 2018, reaching 1.7 percent in Georgia and 1.8 percent nationwide. Georgia's lending growth increased by 3.4 percent in the first quarter of 2017.

Big ticket items led loan growth at Georgia credit unions. New auto loans increased by 3.6 percent followed by used auto loans, which grew at a 3.5 percent rate. Business lending increased 2.6 percent while first mortgages were up 1 percent.

A few loan categories declined. Credit card lending fell 3.2 percent while second mortgages declined 1.2 percent.

The financial outlook has continued to improve in Georgia where unemployment was at 4.3 percent in the first quarter – a historic low. The state's unemployment rate stood at 4.9 percent around the same time in 2017 and at 5.4 percent in 2016.

"As financial situations improve for Georgia consumers, they are more inclined to save and build toward future goals. And, they're feeling confident about taking on the longer term financial responsibility of bigger ticket items," said Georgia Credit Union Affiliates CEO Mike Mercer. "Whether they're saving for college or working toward putting their family into a new home, credit union members know they can trust their credit unions to help them afford life in meaningful ways." 

Georgia credit union membership grew by 3.3 percent annualized in the first quarter, a growth rate that could see 2018 outpace the 2.7 percent increase in membership credit unions had in the last 12 months. Georgia credit unions now have 2.1 million members, more than 20 percent of the state's population.

Nationwide, credit unions now have 114.1 million memberships – about 35 percent of the U.S. population.