Metro Macon Reports September Gains in Labor Force and Employment
Friday, October 23rd, 2026
The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the five-county Macon Metropolitan Statistical Area reported increases in its labor force and employment in September. The over-the-month unemployment rate rose one-tenth of a percentage point to 4.1%, up from 3.9% a year ago.
“Momentum is building across Georgia,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “With sustained regional growth, our strong economy and competitive workforce drive continuous opportunity. We are building the Top State for Talent to keep Georgia the clear choice for job creators and families alike.”
The labor force in Macon increased by 977 over the month and by 1,775 over the year, totaling 100,703.
Macon finished the month with 96,568 employed residents, up by 806 over the month and up by 1,516 over the year.
Macon ended September with 101,500 jobs, down 300 over the month and 400 from the same time last year.
In September, initial unemployment claims in Macon decreased by 56 from the previous month and were down by 40 from the same month last year, totaling 293.
Contact Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685
Media Contacts:
Sr. Communications Specialist, Annalise Morning
Email: Annalise.Morning@gdol.ga.gov
Phone Number: 470-733-6638
Chief Communications Officer, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].gov
Phone Number: 678-350-6878
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685
Media Contacts:
Sr. Communications Specialist, Annalise Morning
Email: Annalise.Morning@gdol.
Phone Number: 470-733-6638
Chief Communications Officer, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].
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.
Follow the Georgia Department of Labor on social media for additional news and updates.
