Valdosta Sees Labor Force and Job Gains in October

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Friday, November 22nd, 2024

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Valdosta recorded an unemployment rate of 3.9 percent in October, up three-tenths of a percent over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 3.5 percent.
 
"While most regions across Georgia experienced a slight uptick in unemployment, our state continues to lead the way with an unemployment rate well below the national average," said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. "As job growth slows across the nation, Georgia’s resilience shines through—driven by commonsense policies that prioritize opportunity, growth, and a workforce ready to lead. This stability proves that Georgia’s economy is built not just to withstand challenges but to thrive for generations to come."
 
The labor force increased in Valdosta by 443 and ended the month with 64,167. That number went up by 1,497 when compared to October of 2023.

Valdosta finished the month with 61,645 employed residents. That number increased by 235 over-the-month and went up by 1,165 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Valdosta ended October with 57,800 jobs. That number went up by 400 over-the-month and went up by 1,000 when compared to this time last year.

In October, initial unemployment claims increased by 726 in Valdosta. When you compare October 2024 claims to October 2023, claims were up by 684, totaling 918.