The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Valdosta recorded an unemployment rate of 3.7 percent in November, down two-tenths of a percent over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 2.9 percent.

“Georgia proves that smart leadership and bold policies drive economic success,” said GDOL Emergency Interim Successor Louis DeBroux. “While other states struggle with overregulation and economic uncertainty, Georgia’s economy is thriving—job numbers are up in 12 regions, unemployment claims are down across the board, and businesses continue to choose our state as the best place to grow and invest. These results don’t happen by accident; they are the product of strong fiscal policies and a commitment to empowering job creators and hardworking Georgians. As we close out the year, Georgia remains a perennial leader in opportunity, innovation, and prosperity.”

The labor force increased in Valdosta by 40 and ended the month with 64,132. That number went up by 1,242 when compared to November of 2023.

Valdosta finished the month with 61,760 employed residents. That number increased by 190 over-the-month and went up by 692 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Valdosta ended November with 58,200 jobs. That number went up by 600 over-the-month and went up by 1,100 when compared to this time last year.

In November, initial unemployment claims decreased by 648 in Valdosta. When you compare November 2024 claims to November 2023, claims were up by 50, totaling 270.