Albany sees rise in February unemployment rate

ATLANTA — Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said in a news release that Albany recorded an unemployment rate of 4.1% in February, up one-tenth of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 4.1%.

“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,” Thompson said. “Even with a slowing nationwide economy, communities across Georgia continue to thrive with low unemployment and high job growth.”

The labor force increased in Albany by 44 and ended the month at 64,738. That number went down by 576 when compared to February of 2022.

Albany finished the month with 62,091 employed residents. That number increased by six over the month and fell by 556 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Albany ended February with 62,600 jobs. That number went up by 100 from January to February and increased by 1,000 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 31% in Albany, dropping back to normal levels. When comparing February 2023 claims to February 2022, they were down by about 20%.