Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Gainesville recorded an unemployment rate of 2.6 percent in October, up one-tenth of a percent over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 2.4 percent.

"While most regions across Georgia experienced a slight uptick in unemployment, our state continues to lead the way with an unemployment rate well below the national average," said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. "As job growth slows across the nation, Georgia’s resilience shines through—driven by commonsense policies that prioritize opportunity, growth, and a workforce ready to lead. This stability proves that Georgia’s economy is built not just to withstand challenges but to thrive for generations to come."

The labor force increased in Gainesville by 14 and ended the month with 114,700. That number went up by 1,188 when compared to October of 2023.

Gainesville finished the month with 111,712 employed residents. That number decreased by 148 over-the-month and rose by 924 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Gainesville ended October with 111,300 jobs. That number increased by 200 over-the-month and rose by 1,000 when compared to this time last year.

In October, initial unemployment claims decreased by 7 in Gainesville. When you compare October 2024 claims to October 2023, claims were up by 13, totaling 305.