The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the one-county Gainesville Metropolitan Statistical Area recorded an unemployment rate of 3.0% in January, up five-tenths over the previous month. A year ago, the rate was 2.8%. January’s increases in unemployment rates across the state reflect historical patterns as many seasonal and holiday-related positions come to an end. 

“Georgia’s diversified economy is one of our greatest competitive advantages,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “That mix of industries and talent allows us to respond quickly to shifting workforce demands across sectors while continuing to expand opportunity for hardworking Georgians — a strength that helps Georgia remain a top state for business and talent.”

 The labor force in Gainesville was down by 207 over the month and up by 752 over the year, ending at 110,646.

Gainesville finished the month with 107,327 employed residents. That number decreased by 740 over the month and increased by 469 over the same time a year ago.

Gainesville ended the month with 109,000 jobs. That number decreased by 1,600 from the previous month and increased by 800 over the year.

In January, initial unemployment claims increased by 388 over the month and by 441 compared to the same month a year ago, totaling 779.

Contact Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685

Media Contact: Director of Communications, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].gov
Phone Number: 678-350-6878
For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff at https://dol.georgia.gov/employeremail.  

For more information on unemployment benefits, claimants should call 877.709.8185 or visit their MyUI Claimant Portal. GDOL's Career Centers also provide in-person unemployment insurance benefit services for customers statewide.

For more information on jobs and current labor force data, visit Georgia LaborMarket Explorer to view a comprehensive report.