Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Gainesville recorded an unemployment rate of 2.1 percent in December, down one-tenth of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 2.1 percent.

“Georgia’s highly-skilled workforce and business-friendly environment continues to drive positive economic growth across all corners of the state,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “With the unemployment rate trending lower than the national average, we are well-positioned to help businesses remain competitive and find top-tier talent.”

The labor force increased in Gainesville by 460 and ended the month with 106,065. That number went down by 475 when compared to December of 2021.

Gainesville finished the month with 103,805 employed residents. That number increased by 491 over the month and decreased by 446 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Gainesville ended December with 100,000 jobs. From November to December, job numbers rose 600. When compared to December of 2021, job numbers went up by 1,800.

The number of unemployment claims decreased by 26 percent in Gainesville in December. When compared to last December, claims were up by about 30 percent.