Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Macon recorded an unemployment rate of 4.3 percent in August, up seven-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.9 percent.

"August unemployment numbers continue to reinforce the strength of a vibrant Georgia economy," said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. "With the uptick in unemployment over the past month, it requires diligent and deliberate focus to balance opportunity with the needs within the state's workforce."

The labor force decreased in Macon by 318 and ended the month with 100,903. That number went up by 2,000 when compared to August of 2022. 

Macon finished the month with 96,556 employed residents. That number decreased by 974 over-the-month and rose by 1,540 when compared to the same time a year ago. 

Macon ended August with 102,800 jobs. That number decreased by 500 from July to August and rose by 1,900 when compared to this time last year. 

In August, initial unemployment claims decreased by 19 (-3%) in Macon. When you compare August 2023 claims to August 2022, claims were down by 118 (-18%).