The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the five-county Macon Metropolitan Statistical Area recorded an unemployment rate of 4.2% in January, up four-tenths over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.9%. 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 Macon decreased by 109 over the month and ended at 98,917. That number increased by 461 compared to the same time last year.
 

Macon finished January with 94,802 employed residents, down 466 over the month and up 223 from January 2025.
 

Macon ended January with 101,400 jobs. That number was down 1,300 over the month and was up 600 over the year.
 

In January, initial unemployment claims increased by 12 over the previous month and decreased by 24 from the same month a year ago, totaling 460. 

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.