Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Gainesville recorded an unemployment rate of 2.5 percent in September, down eight-tenths of a percent over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 2.3 percent.

“This fall, unemployment rates are dropping all across Georgia,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “While some metro areas throughout the state have seen a slight dip in jobs, the overall increase in employment shows that more residents are finding work and contributing to our local economies. I will continue to fight for the resources our citizens need to thrive and ensure that Georgia's economy remains competitive and the No. 1 place to do business for years to come.”

The labor force increased in Gainesville by 388 and ended the month with 114,825. That number went up by 1,731 when compared to September of 2023.

Gainesville finished the month with 111,999 employed residents. That number increased by 1,350 over-the-month and rose by 1,478 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Gainesville ended September with 111,300 jobs. That number decreased by 100 over-the-month and rose by 2,100 when compared to this time last year.

In September, initial unemployment claims decreased by 44 in Gainesville. When you compare September 2024 claims to September 2023, claims were up by 58, totaling 312.