Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Macon recorded an unemployment rate of 3.7 percent in February, down one-tenth of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.7 percent.

"Pro-growth policies that foster innovation and drive success are why Georgia remains the No. 1 state for business and a perennial powerhouse in talent development," said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. "Even with a slowing nationwide economy, communities across Georgia continue to thrive with low unemployment and high job growth."

The labor force increased in Macon by 629 and ended the month with 100,598. That number went down by 146 when compared to February of 2022.

Macon finished the month with 96,859 employed residents. That number increased by 649 over the month and fell by 203 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Macon ended February with 102,000 jobs. That number went up by 500 from January to February and increased by 1,600 when compared to this time last year.

Historically, claims increase every January due to temporary seasonal manufacturing shutdowns and the retail sector shedding workers hired for the holiday season. In February, initial unemployment claims decreased by 29 percent in Macon, dropping back to normal levels. When you compare February 2023 claims to February 2022, claims were up by about 9 percent.